Bristol Business Post Edition 18

Edition18 The South Wests Leading Business & Lifestyle Publication

Tel: 08000 807 809 Email: hello@bristolbusinesspost.co.uk

www.bristolbusinesspost.co.uk

Tel: 08000 807 809 Email: hello@bristolbusinesspost.co.uk

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No matter which option you choose, every bedroom has comfort cooling, WiFi and a flatscreen satellite TV along with a hair dryer, ironing facilities, telephone and modem points, and tea and coffee making facilities.

Workplace Pensions

Not only do guests sleep well, they wine and dine well, thanks to the Napier Restaurant which serves the best of traditional and contemporary British cuisine.

Scottish Life is turning away automatic enrolment business from firms that are less than six months from their staging date due to concerns they will be unable to deal with the administrative workload.

Time is running out as experts warn of an auto-enrolment “capacity crunch”, with insurers struggling to meet the demands of employers as the reforms are rolled out to small and medium sized businesses.

Many SMEs are facing the threat of significant fines for failing to comply with auto-enrolment, according to a report published by law firm, Irwin Mitchell.

The study uncovered that a number of employers are yet to 'stage' auto-enrolment and fully consider the key issues that need resolving ahead of its implementation.

Following its research of more than 250 small UK employers, almost two-thirds had failed to budget for the additional costs that can be incurred as a result of auto-enrolment, while nearly 40 per cent of respondents said their payroll system was non-compliant.

Although big groups tend to have their own advisors – dedicated pension advice specialists in house, the problem lies with the already administratively overburdened SME sector, a large tranche of whom are due to come on line in 2014.

Many companies who have comfortably assumed that the company pension plan they have in place will be suitable, are finding that their schemes either don’t qualify, the provider doesn’t want the workers at the lower end of the pay scale, or that their established scheme is simply not able to support the provisions of Auto Enrolment.

Finding the right plan and obtaining professional advice is core to the ideals of the scheme, but companies need to be aware that the whole process can take at least a year.

The Pensions Regulator advises companies, “Allow plenty of time to prepare. We recommend starting 12-18 months before your staging date, though this will vary depending on your individual circumstances - not all employers will need to allow so much time.”

Although a year may seem a long time away, by 1st July 2014 companies with as few as 62 staff will need to have their schemes in place, and those with 90 + staff who haven’t started the process yet are already running late, as their staging date is May1st 2014.

A spokesman says they usually require a lead-in time of at least six months to prepare employers’ payroll systems and roll out communications to staff ahead of their auto-enrolment staging date.

Legal & General will not confirm whether it has a specific cut-off period, although it is understood the provider will not deal with employers that are within three months of their staging date.

An L&G spokesman says: “An employer should ideally be thinking about auto-enrolment at a minimum of six months ahead of their staging dates, preferably longer.

Queens Hotel The Queen’s Hotel is more than an elegant landmark for the ‘gateway to the scenic Cotswolds’, Cheltenham Spa, it’s Europe’s first purpose-built hotel that has been welcoming guests for more than 175 years.

Situated at the top of the town’s famous Promenade, the noble Grade II building captures all the Regency grandeur and style in a nutshell. When Cheltenham wants to attract visitors, images of The Queen’s Hotel, with its spectacular glistening white façade and imposing six pillared portico take pride of place.

“To date we have not turned an employer away but we are unable to provide a solution to an employer that has not embarked on their planning for auto-enrolment in good time.”

Companies who have not made adequate provision will be sucked into the government’s default scheme of NEST which has been created as part of the government’s pension reforms to help employers meet their new duties.

Any UK employer can use NEST to meet their new workplace pension duties, no matter how large or small their organisation, but they must still have all their preparations made in good time, more information can be found on www.nestpensions.org.uk.

However, pension experts point out that NEST has a number of major drawbacks, although obliged to accept any employer, it lacks capacity, the management charge of 1.8% is not particularly cheap, and its provisions are relatively inflexible.

So now is the time for employers to review their options without delay.

For more information about auto enrolment visit

www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk

The hospitality from all the Queen’s staff, led by General Manager Peter Watt, is second to none and there’s an equally warm welcome to those looking for a venue to host a big event.

With a choice of room, functions for 1- to 120 guests can be accommodated. And if the event is more for business than pleasure, the hotel has all the facilities every modern conference organiser requires, such as individually designed delegate packages, complimentary stationery, LCD projector, screen and flipchart.

An Aviva spokesman says: “Our first priority is to support our existing customers through auto-enrolment, and that is where we are applying our efforts.

A Prudential spokesman says: “Our approach has been to open a dialogue with clients 12 to 15 months ahead of staging dates and in this way we have been successful in agreeing autoenrolment solutions well in advance of deadlines.

Adorned with photographs of the town’s famous racecourse, it’s also the perfect place for guests seeking light refreshments, morning coffee or afternoon tea.

The Regency decor forms a perfect setting for any wedding or civil ceremony, with the hotel’s walled garden an ideal place for photographs and reception drinks.

Other providers recognise the challenge posed by employers that do not begin preparations for auto-enrolment early but did not provide details of when they would consider turning business away.

Scottish Widows head of corporate pensions Pete Glancy says: “Given how much time and effort is required to deliver autoenrolment schemes, we are not surprised some providers would express concerns about being able to deliver with less than six months notice.

Diners can enjoy classic dishes cooked with flair which are perfectly complemented by a selection of fine wines from the extensive wine list while the Gold Cup bar is ideal for pre and afterdinner drinks.

Of course, everything within and about this 4* hotel, under the Mercure brand and part of the Accor group, is as impressive as the building itself.

For further information about the Queen’s Hotel, its conference and wedding packages and dining experience, or to make a booking, go to http://www.mercure.com/gb/hotel-6632-mercurecheltenham-queen-s/index.shtml.

Alternatively you can telephone 01242 307 800 or email H6632@accor.com

Here is where visitors experience superb standards of comfort, as one would expect from an establishment which has been welcoming distinguished guests, including a past Prince of Wales, for more than a century.

It’s convenient too. The Queen’s Hotel overlooks the Imperial Gardens and is a mere stroll from the town's many shops and restaurants.

The 84 bedrooms offer a range of accommodation including privilege rooms, four-poster features and one with enhanced accessibility.

Proud to be associated with Queens Hotel

www.spa-tax.com

Bristol Contents Page ed 18 xmas_Layout 1 06/11/2013 12:13 Page 3

C O N T E N T S Bristol Business Post Welcome to Edition 18 of the Bristol Business Post showcasing the best of business stories and comments from the South West.

In this edition Bev James has tips on developing a Successful Management style, and Lord Saatchi talks about Mobile Advertising.

We look at the modern technology for today’s fleet mangers, and warn businesses that time is running short to prepare for Auto Enrolment.

Property Development looks at recent improving market conditions, and we discuss the benefits to the tourism industry of Autumn Breaks. And it’s that time again! Our seasonal feature is on Christmas across the South West.

In our next edition Rose George will discuss “Deep Sea and Ocean Going”, we look at the issues surrounding Facilities Management, and alternative sources of Business Funding, while Bev James advises start up businesses how to avoid some common mistakes.

Bristol Business Post 11 Canalside Office Complex, Lowesmoor Wharf, Worcester WR1 2RR Tel: 08000 807 809 Fax: 01905 726 467 E: hello@bristolbusinesspost.co.uk W: www.bristolbusinesspost.co.uk Publisher: PIL (Europe) Limited Print & Design: Heron Press UK ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Reproduction in whole or part prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictorial media for this publication are sent at owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PIL (Europe) Limited or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope.

DISCLAIMER Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PIL (Europe) Limited cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication.

The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor.

The Green Consultancy The Maltings LinuxIT Kwintessential Bechtle Opus Recruitment Solutions Cuff Security Services Foremost Signs Severn Signs Allwear Solutions Dobbins Industrial Cleaning The Okey Cokey Lift West C J Saunders British Welding Equipment Montaz Engineering Sleabridge Denis Wick Anton Parris Motorcycles AJ Reynolds Car andTruck Services Minerva Bath Ltd Sports and Prestige Taunton Caravan Services Eyespymyride Talland School of Equitation Glentworth Lettings Southern Counties Leisure Pathfinder Homes A1 Complete Builders B Walsh and Sons Stride Treglown Barron Surveying Services W Coombes & Sons (Contractors) St. Ann's Gate Architects JR Building TGM Construction Plane Decorators Paul O’Brien Roofing County Flat Roofing (UK) Landscape Services (SouthWest) Alltype fencing Harveys Select Rooms of Distinction Professional Floor Sanding Lighting Services Riverside Butchers Doniford Farm The Kings Arms Platters Seafood Restaurant Rocky’s Grill Big Chill The Paris Hotel Goodfellows Seafood Restaurant The Red Barn Winford Manor

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Alongside a large number of UK universities, TGC’s clients also include a wide range of commercial and industrial companies, leisure and hospitality, education, healthcare, local authorities, and police forces.

“In an age of rapidly changing ideas and technologies, we keep up to speed with developments but keep our feet on the ground,” says John.

As UK businesses find themselves increasingly challenged by rising energy prices and environmental awareness issues, many turn to The Green Consultancy for expert help and advice.

“We’re never distracted by ‘eco bling’ - new but often expensive and unproven technology. We focus on complementing your in-house resources to help you realise the potential of low-cost options for carbon and energy reduction that deliver results as quickly as possible.”

Half Price Offer for Bristol Business Post readers

Passionate about helping them find the best ways to reduce their energy consumption, carbon emissions and other environmental impacts, the Bath consultancy’s unique and rigorous methodology for identifying the most cost-effective opportunities while minimising the need for capital expenditure, has set it apart, and ahead of the rest of the field.

Not only does it have a wealth of accreditations and memberships underlining its levels of professionalism and excellence, it’s received some pretty high praise from some of the country’s most prestigious organisations.

Michael Webb

If your organisation spends over £100,000 pa on energy, and orders an Energy Health Check in September and October, we will carry it out at half of the normal fee (which depends on site size etc).

Contact Michael Webb on 08450 176300 or email Michael@GreenConsultancy.com.

For example, Oxford University’s Energy Manager declared the quality of The Green Consultancy’s (TGC) work “some of the best I have seen” after the company showed how the university could achieve 70% of its energy reduction target having audited just two dozen of its 200 or so buildings.

“That was one of our greatest successes,” declares TGC founder and Managing Director John Treble. “Since being established 21 years ago, we have grown to serve more than 1,000 organisations, including 60% of all UK universities and more than 110 NHS Trusts, and our impressive results on an array of different energy efficiency tasks have attracted generous praise.”

While the last two decades have seen environmental issues and energy consumption take centre stage in the public consciousness, John has been ‘green’ since the days when most people really did think the word only meant a colour.

“TGC is about reducing environmental impacts but, importantly in the current recession, it is also about reducing rapidly increasing energy costs,” he says.

“Typically we work for organisations spending £100,000 to £25,000,000 pa on energy, and identify, and help implement, up to 30% in cost savings.

“We also offer an outsourced energy management service for those typically spending £100,000-500,000 pa on energy, such as further education colleges and SMEs, to enable them to manage energy and water effectively, drive down energy costs and comply with relevant legislation.”

Maternity Building of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – currently subject to a TGC energy audit.

For further information on services, a wealth of testimonials and FREE Intelligent Energy Insights visit www.greenconsultancy.com

Cleverdon & Co Chartered Accountants Proud to have helped The Green Consultancy to achieve their successes to date.

Call us on 01275 854961 or visit our web site to discover how we could help your business. www.cleverdon.biz

leverdon

& co

Chartered Accountants

OFFICE: Third Floor - The Sion, Crown Glass Place, Nailsea, Bristol, BS48 1RB

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When it comes to keeping company records, the importance of information security, data protection and legal compliance cannot be underestimated, says document management specialist Kathy Fox. As Managing Director of The Maltings Limited, Kathy knows just how severe the consequences can be for a business’s owners, directors and staff if vital archives are not stored properly.

“Companies who opt for a selfstorage unit may choose this solution based on misconstrued perception that a fully managed archive service is a more expensive solution for effective document retention,” “However, if you consider factors such as damage to boxes from stacking them high in a confined space or the increased storage cost per box resulting from the need to rent another entire unit once one reaches capacity, our document management service costs less than you think.”

Then there’s many other risks, such as unsupervised access, not knowing what is being stored in neighbouring units and inaccurate return of files to storage, along with hidden costs like liability insurance, mileage allowance and lost office productivity incurred by sending staff to retrieve files. More than 700 organisations across the South West have peace of mind from all this, having assigned their vital records to the expert care and retrieval systems of The Maltings.

Always investing in the latest technology to maintain its computerised records management systems, the company has upgraded its IT infrastructure, and has also invested in upgrading its bespoke database to a market leading system specifically designed for the records management industry.

Accordingly The Maltings can provide record storage solutions to suit individual customer requirements as well as reports including document or history traces. And distance between company and archives is no object, especially if a particular record is urgently required; The Maltings can locate, scan and email a specific document as part of its Scan On Demand service.

To find out how The Maltings can help you save money and release valuable office space, visit

www.themaltings.co.uk Alternatively email enquiries@themaltings.co.uk or telephone 02920 462045

Document Storage & Retrieval Services Before

After

Bristol solicitor’s Kelcey & Hall is the latest company to join an extensive range of clients to whom correct and safe document storage is critical: legal, banking, healthcare, accounting, insurance, media, entertainment and public sector organisations.

Based in Cardiff, The Maltings, which takes its name from its Grade II listed premises, a Victorian malt house, has more than 35 years’ experience of handling sensitive information.

“We value and understand the importance of confidentiality and security. All our staff are periodically CRB checked by Disclosure Scotland,” Kathy added. “Everyone is extremely proud of the business’s long history and its greatest success can be defined by the quantity of customer accounts that have been retained for 30 years or more.”

A member of The Records Management Society with ISO accreditations: in Quality Management, Environmental Management and Occupational Health and Safety Management, its inclusive service covers professional archive document storage and retrieval services, confidential document destruction and archive box supplies, along with all handling, collection and delivery.

Are you struggling to work in an office that has become cluttered with company paperwork and files?

Do you spend most of your day searching through mountains of disorganised documents for a particular invoice or report?

Are you concerned about your organisations information security procedures?

Then let The Maltings relieve some of the burden with our range of professional records management services. A dedicated team of fully trained staff provide a first class service to our 700+ clients, for a monthly charge which is transparent and easy to understand.

Please call The Maltings on 02920 462045 or email enquiries@themaltings.co.uk for further information or advice.

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Simon Mitchell Executive Director

Bristol based, LinuxIT, is an IT Services company specialising in Linux systems management with an unrivalled record in deploying best practice Linux and Open Source and free Software (OSS).

Very much part of the local SME tradition of innovation and success, LinuxIT is growing steadily, with business revenue up over 50% year on year.

“LinuxIT wants to make a difference and we believe Linux and OSS can deliver real and lasting change to our industry and enable organisations by cutting costs, enhancing quality and improving flexibility whilst stimulating economic growth by creating a fairer and more innovative marketplace.” explains Executive Director, Simon Mitchell.

After 14 years of consulting with Government and businesses, LinuxIT has clearly identified what is needed to bring about this change, and designed cutting-edge service products that are opening the eyes of organisations.

From a modest start in 1999, in the Chairman’s bedroom, LinuxIT has grown into a substantial, privately owned company employing 25 people full time, from purpose developed state-of-the-art offices on the edge of the new Bristol and Bath Science Park.

LinuxIT views Bristol as the innovation centre of the country; it is a great place to find staff, and serves every part of the UK. Bristol was the city of choice rather than Thames Valley due to the vast creative investment coming into the area.

Peter Dawes-Huish Chairman

The recent turbulent economy has been good for LinuxIT, Linux, and OSS. “We have consolidated and are now positioned to move forward, and continue to grow. An exciting situation which makes us enthused and liberated; there’s so much going on it’s beyond belief,” explains Chairman, Peter Dawes-Huish.

LinuxIT believes there is a fundamental shift underway in corporate culture supporting social responsibility, environmental stewardship and a greater sense of community. As a valuesbased organisation LinuxIT has integrated these principles into the way it conducts every aspect of its business.

In today’s fast paced business world organisations are constantly challenged to deliver more or better services with less cost, and this is where LinuxIT comes in by empowering them through the adoption of Open Standards and IT Architectures with appropriate use of Linux and OSS.

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One service in particular, the Open Architectures Readiness Assessment is designed to help organisations move towards more Open Architectures and is targeted at CIO’s and IS/IT Directors and Managers to help them capitalise on the value of Open Source Software.

LinuxIT House

LinuxIT has developed extensive expertise and reference architectures and works with leading commercial and public sector organisations in their use of Linux as the infrastructure platform for their mission critical IT systems.

LinuxIT has more OSS certifications than any other UKbased organisation-gaining some of the industry's highest partner accreditations, including Red Hat’s first UK Premier Partner and with SuSE, Ubuntu, Nagios, Puppet, Alfresco and many more.

They hold ISO the following accreditations as follows: ISO 9001, 20000 and 27001.

For more information about the range of services they offer visit www.linuxit.com or telephone 0845 606 3002

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Maurice Saatchi on the Rise of Mobile Advertising

Phillip Hollis for Rex Features

The other major change is the introduction of new 4G networks, which is akin to the move from dial-up to broadband for fixed line connections.

Although true mass-market adoption is still a small while off for 4G, the introduction of super-fast mobile broadband offers exciting creative opportunities for running interactive media campaigns on mobiles.

The incredible rise of mobiles and tablets presents new challenges and concerns to advertisers, perhaps making mobile advertising appear more complicated than it should be.

As we enter this new mobile age, advertisers do not need to be confused or intimidated. Working with an experienced specialist mobile agency will help to reduce the apparent complexity of mobile and retain the simplicity that needs to govern a brand’s advertising outlook. As ever, I believe that brands should be free from the shackles of technical intimidation and should be able to focus on what they have always done best, which is to ensure that a compelling and clear message reaches the right customer at the right time.

Mobiles are ever-present in most of our lives. They are now a natural extension of ourselves and a means of staying permanently connected to a world of friends, family, work and information. Their ubiquitous nature means that they present advertisers with an emerging opportunity like no other. There are now more mobile phones and tablet devices in the UK than people and television sets. Opportunities to connect are reaching new heights with WiFi on the London Underground and airplanes and a new Wi-Fi network is soon due to launch in London’s Black Cabs.

Another significant growth area for mobile advertising is social networks.

This is largely due to the fact that they take up a significant amount of consumers’ time spent on their mobile.

As a result of this, companies such as Facebook and Twitter are able to build an incredibly detailed picture of interests and habits for increased advertising targeting effectiveness.

Maurice Saatchi In Britain we spend around 127 minutes per day in mobile apps. Increasingly, our mobile devices form a picture of our interests and browsing habits and they know who we are. Perhaps, most significantly, they also know where we are at any given time. The added awareness that location brings to mobile advertising offers new and exciting opportunities for brands and consumers alike. Locationawareness represents a revolution in advertising, messaging and branding.

Retail brands are now able to geo-fence around their bricks and mortar stores to appropriately identify when a consumer is near. This means that exclusive offers can be sent to shoppers in the vicinity of a store, or a movie trailer played to customers near a cinema.

The availability of affordable tablet devices is providing the tipping point for consumers to begin abandoning the PC as their primary means of accessing email and Internet. To accompany this, they are even eating into the exclusivity of the television set, by providing consumers with a new way of watching their favourite programmes and films. Recent stats from the BBC show that in March, the number of people accessing BBC iPlayer through a tablet surpassed the smartphone figure for the first time ever.

James Hilton, Global CEO, M&C Saatchi Mobile observes the “explosive” growth of mobile advertising, as well as its capabilities first hand. Mobile advertising has proven itself to be a major advertising platform, with global revenues worth $6.43 billion in 2012 according to mobile ad exchange SMAATO and is projected to be worth $19.7 billion by 2017. 2013 is shaping up to be the biggest year for mobile so far, as more consumers than ever shift over to smartphones and tablets: 25 million+ iOS and Android devices were activated globally in the period following Christmas alone. These numbers support the trends we saw in 2012, as smartphones overtook feature phones and opened up new opportunities for rich and engaging mobile advertising.

The ever-present nature of mobile devices coupled with location awareness, combine to make mobile an incredibly potent platform, giving brands the capability to target consumers at an increasingly granular level. This is something which has not existed previously and consumers will once again welcome advertising as it serves up products and services which are directly useful and relevant to their lives.

Lord Maurice Saatchi is executive director of international advertising agency M&C Saatchi.

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With the global marketplace, never has it so important for companies to be able to communicate properly.

With the explosion of the internet, even the smallest businesses have a worldwide customer base at their fingertips, but few have the language skills required to get their message across.

Which is where Kwintessential comes in.

The Somerset firm has been successfully bridging the gap between international traders since 2003, since when it has grown from a laptop in a front room to offices in the UK, US, Argentina, South Africa, Dubai and Switzerland.

“Not only did it allow us to find business when we started, but the time and effort we have put into it has created a site of true value,” declares Neil. “We are used as a resource for many major government, business and educational organisations due to our open access to valuable information.”

Being able to understand and adapt its services to help clients with the challenges they face when working abroad have proved key to the success of Kwintessential, based on the Crewkerne Business Park, which is moving ahead with plans for further growth.

“We’ve already established an office in Zurich, Switzerland, and are investing in a training centre at our UK headquarters which will supply various cross-discipline programmes for companies in the South West and beyond,” says Neil. “We’re also looking to become experienced partners in various sectors as our appreciation of areas such as export, legal, marketing, ecommerce and others helps us offer real value.”

This is a company which thinks, speaks and feels global in everything it does.

“We are the only complete translation company,” emphasises Neil. “Whether you want a professional translator, document translation, an interpreter, website localisation, a multi-lingual app, legal transcriptions or cultural awareness training, we’re talking your language.”

For further information about Kwintessential and its full range of services, visit www.kwintessential.co.uk Alternatively, telephone 01460 279900 or email info@kwintessential.co.uk.

It’s proved an invaluable ally for companies throughout the South West of the UK, many of which export or trade internationally, helping them with everything from export training to translating their brochures and from localising e-commerce sites to virtual assistants and research.

Kwintessential understands that there’s so much more to translation than just being able to say “hello” and ‘have a nice day”.

“Speaking the local lingo is now more important than ever,” explains Marketing Manager Neil Payne. “Paying attention to those subtle differences in language and culture always pays dividends in international business dealings.

“Whatever you have that needs marketing, selling or using in a foreign country – we can help to ensure you get your message across correctly, whether it’s a website, app, social media campaign, Facebook page, online content, video, software or e-commerce platform.

CONTACT US FOR OUR NEW FULL RANGE OF SALES BROCHURES FOR 2013

Office Furniture Bargains are proud to support Kwintessential...

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ORDER ONLINE www.officefurniturebargains.com Office Furniture Bargains, Unit 3, Kings Castle Business Park, Boards Road, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 4AG T 08454 638625 s W www.officefurniturebargains.com

data-path Specialising in structured cabling We provide a large range of services

Network Cabling Electrical Cabinets / Containment Audio Visual CCTV Phone System

“We also provide interpreting services, multi-cultural awareness training, multi-lingual design and website translations.”

If anyone understands the importance of having an eyecatching worldwide shop window for the global market place it’s Kwintessential, which is why it is immensely proud of its own website.

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08454 638625

Unit 2, Crewkerne Business Park, Northernway Crewkerne, Somerset, TA18 7HJ E-mail: sales@data-path.co.uk

Tel: 01460 279030 www.data-path.co.uk

Within the following sectors

Commercial Education Data Centre Industrial Health Residential Overseas

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IT Solutions

provider Bechtle Direct is so passionate about getting things right for clients that it has its own academy to ensure its staff provide a Grade A-level service.

With its emphasis on education, service and the requirement to fully understand customers’ needs from a technology and business standpoint, the Bechtle Sales Academy sets out to make new employees effective members of the team as quickly as possible.

Bechtle Direct was established as the UK division of Germany’s Bechtle GmbH EDV – Technik in 1997 and was headed up for 11 years by Ian Caston, a former associate of one of the parent company’s co-founders.

He recruited two University of Plymouth graduates, one of whom, James Napp, is today’s Managing Director, overseeing the company which provides IT solutions for small and medium businesses, corporations and public sector organisations.

“We have a portfolio of more than 47,000 products, from computing supplies to high end server, storage and networking solutions,” James says. “Although 40% of our business is online, we are more than an E-Commerce company. We’re a solutions provider, with dedicated account managers who are proud to become our customers’ trusted advisors.”

“We are a one-click, one-stop shop for IT from peripherals to consumables and the remainder is value added consultancy and solution sales. With Bechtle you get the best of both.”

A long list of accreditations, including HP Gold Preferred Partner; with specialisations in seven areas, Microsoft Partner (Gold for Volume Licensing and Silver for Software Asset Management), Samsung Elite IT Partner and Symantec Platinum Partner only underlines the company’s quality and expertise.

Both local businesses, such as DAS, Mathew Clark and Accolade Wines, and national organisations including Hilton Hotels and Warner Music all benefit from working with Bechtle. If you would like a free IT consultation, please contact sales@bechtle.co.uk.

For further information visit It’s a vital role, as the Chippenham company has always enjoyed steady and continuous growth since formation. This year alone the headcount grew from 44 to 57 - 30% - and the aim is for it to rise further by the end of 2013.

In the last three years, recorded turnover went from £11.7 million to £24 million, a staggering 105%, and there was the investment, design and build of prestigious offices on the Methuen Business Park, able to accommodate more than 100 people.

The new premises have brought even more opportunities, not least because of the dedicated build area which has increased capacity and enabled the company to service more customers simultaneously and handle larger jobs.

www.bechtle.co.uk or telephone 01249 467900

Congratulations to all at Bechtle on your 30th Anniversary

Because of increased secure storage, the building has also improved stock-holding capabilities and is proving the perfect place for hosting customer/vendor meetings. It also provides onsite and externally hosted seminars on key hardware, software and solutions, which give customers a more in-depth understanding of how certain products and solutions could benefit their business.

ACCOUNTANTS AND REGISTERED AUDITORS Email: sean@bedfordandco.co.uk Tel 01363 77 2344 128 High Street Crediton Devon EX17 3LQ

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As part of their planned expansion they have also opened another brand that focuses on the senior appointments end of the market, and are developing a social networking platform called Talentcubed that will revolutionise the way graduate recruitment is done.

Darren Ryemill, CEO and Founder told us that, “Growing at the rate we would like has been a major challenge. We have a huge amount of demand from our clients and are always on the lookout for talented people to join us.”

Opus Recruitment Solutions, the award winning specialist IT Recruitment Company is celebrating a clutch of prestigious awards.

This rapidly growing young company, which was founded in 2008 and started out with just 4 people based in a small office in Bristol, has grown significantly in the 5 years since incorporation.

Even their first year turnover was an impressive £1.2 million, rising in 2012 to £9.3 million; expected turnover this year will be in excess of £12m, Opus are obviously providing just what the market wants.

Then this year Opus featured on the Virgin Fasttrack 100 2012 showing the 100 fastest growing private companies in any sector in the UK. They were also on the Recruiter Hot 100 2012, listing the recruitment companies that have the highest Gross Profit per employee in the UK. With even stronger figures just filed for their latest financial year, Opus is expecting to achieve the same accolade for 2013, whilst also stating that "3 in a row" should be achieved in 2014 based on their YTD figures.

“Whether they are experienced or not, if they have the right attitude and desire to succeed then we want to talk to people about joining our team. We have invested heavily in training to ensure the people that join us succeed.”

But far from resting on their laurels the company is diversifying, their vibrant new website and branding was launched on August 14th, as they branch out into also providing well qualified candidates for the Oil and Gas sectors.

“Also challenging our desire to grow has been the opening of another office and expansion into new countries, as each new step brings its own challenges, especially when expanding at the rate we have.

A National Bank with Local Experts At Aldermore, we pride ourselves on being part of the community, by investing in it. Our customers receive all the benefits and flexibility of working with a high-street lender, and with offices across the UK, we understand the local market, so we’re well placed to help you make commercial decisions.

Since the end of 2012 Aldermore has proved we’re championing SMEs by: • Having lent £1.4 billion • Increased our lending by 23% Recently, the Bristol branch of Aldermore worked alongside Opus Recruitment Solutions Ltd, to help them expand and realise their strategic growth plans.

Craig Stritch, Associate Director, Aldermore explains;

“Working with Opus allowed us to demonstrate our expertise in this important industy sector, showcasing how we can provide our clients with all the support they need to develop.”

“Working with Aldermore has been a complete breath of fresh air, their honest and transparent approach to our funding requirements has seen us significantly reduce our costs and allowed us to really accelerate our growth plans. Added to that, Aldermore has a regional office in Bristol allowing us to meet with the team whenever we need to.”

Darren Ryemill, CEO, Opus Recruitment Solutions Ltd.

To find out more about Cash Flow Finance in the South West, speak to Craig and the team at our Bristol office

t 01173 143550 w aldermore.co.uk Registered in England and Wales under Company No. 947662. Registered Office: Aldermore Bank PLC, 1st Floor, Block B, Western House, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FZ. Aldermore Bank PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. (Financial Services Register number: 204503).

AIF235-0813-100265

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11175 2pgs 2_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 15:47 Page 2

Opus opened a second office in London in April 2012 and now boasts in excess of 50 employees across the two offices.”

This drive and passion saw Opus being personally selected by Lord Young, The Prime Minister’s Enterprise Advisor, and Sir Terry Leahy, to become a founding member of Accelerate250, identifying Opus as “one of the UK’s top 250 businesses”.

Opus says that they love challenging the status quo and redefining the way things are done. “We want to drive things forward in a new way that excites us, our clients and the industry at large.” (Darren Ryemill) This is clearly backed up by Lord Young identifying Opus as helping to “build Britain as a global centre for commercial excellence” and creating “new jobs by disrupting industries and creating new markets”.

Sam Jenkinson, Business Development and Marketing Manager, outlined some of their plans for the future, saying, “We are developing our brand and online presence to reflect the size of company we have grown into, hence the launch of the new website and new brand.

“Investment in growth is key to what we are about and we have invested in new databases and new tools as well as taking on some new key people that will enable us to grow further.”

Impressive achievements indeed from a business opened on the back of a recession in 2008, that has worked hard to get some fantastic client names on board, and then delivered a high quality of service and candidates that has ensured clients keep coming back to Opus.

www.opusrecruitmentsolutions.com Call: 01179689292 Email: Sam.jenkinson@opusrs.com Castlemead, Lower Castle Street, Bristol, BS1 3AG

TIMESHEET PORTAL Streamline your business with online timesheets expense forms and holiday management...

ǁǁǁ͘ŽƉƵƐƌĞĐƌƵŝƚŵĞŶƚƐŽůƵƟŽŶƐ͘ĐŽŵ +44 (0)117 968 9292 contactus@opusrs.com

Visit our website for a FREE trial www.timesheetportal.com We are proud to support

Opus Recruitment and wish them all the best for the future

Tel: 0207 993 4181 sales@timesheetportal.com

Specialists in Recruitment

Pure Comms is delighted to be working with Opus Recruitment Solutions As the South West’s fastest growing telecoms company, Pure Comms put the customer at the heart of everything we do.

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PureComms Call today on 0800 634 4733 info@purecomms.co.uk | www.purecomms.co.uk East End Court | Tickenham Road | Clevedon | N-Somerset | BS21 6QY

11

11152 1PG new_HorseWorld 29/10/2013 09:41 Page 1

Jon is very “hands on” and not adverse to taking on the roles that any of the 100-plus staff on his books carry out every day, 24 hours a day – most of which involves keeping people and their businesses safe.

GROUP G RO OUP

Gloucester based, Cuff Security Services have taken the provision of security services to a fine art. Whatever your industry or manned guarding service requirements, Cuff Security Services Ltd (CSS) can provide the right solution for you.

Cuff Security Services specialise in providing undercover guards, (plain clothed security guards). CSS also provides Key holding, Manned Guarding, Security Guard (s), Alarm response, Patrol units and Security Guard Dogs to businesses across the UK.

His knowledge of security industry was learned from the bottom up and he developed an instinct for survival through opportunity learned on the streets of his home city, as a compliance officer.

He said “At the start of the recession I had to make a decision about where I wanted to go. I thought I was good at security, so I decided to set up my own company.” It took three years of not getting paid to build up enough money in the bank to pay wages without taking out a loan.”

On recruitment, he said, "You have to put people forward who are able to solve problems. This is the sort of work we specialise in. It is about getting the job right the first time. It is about picking the right person, choosing by personality, not their CV”.

With new clients CSS sits down from the start and find out exactly what they want, work out a budget and are honest about everything from the off.

They carry out highly advanced recruitment screening processes which are very effective in matching individual staff personalities and skills to customers’ requirements to ensure the delivery of the best quality service.

Jon Humphries Cuff, founder and MD, explained the thinking behind the company’s structure saying, “Our purpose is to provide the Security Industry with not just security guards but a quality that is unmatched; quality through management, and quality through Security Guard advanced recruitment and testing. Reporting is important to us and we know this is important to our customers, we ensure that reporting is a priority and you our customer are always kept up to date on security issues.”

Cuff Securities is now in its fourth year and has teams based across the UK and Ireland, its customers include most of Gloucestershire's local authorities, as well as cities, further afield, like Norwich.

Jon says, "You have to do the hard work. For me, in terms of the business, it is about building something up that people will appreciate; it's about getting feedback on a good job done. "In the four years we have been running we have not lost a contract based on poor performance."

For more information, please visit their website

www.cuffgroup.co.uk or for a confidential discussion, please telephone

01452 856050

Rowbis

Your local legal experts Congratulations to the Cuff Group Wishing everyone at the Cuff Group all the best for their new Bristol office

Accountants and business advisors based in the South West.

Proud to be supporting Cuff Group

T: 01452 301 903 E: enquiries@rowbis.co.uk www.qualitysolicitors.com/rowbis 12

17 Brunswick Square, Gloucester GL1 1UG 01452 505767

11113 1pg_CD Engineering 28/06/2013 14:20 Page 1

Bev James

CEO of The Coaching Academy and Director of Mentoring at Start-Up Loans

How to develop a successful management style Developing a successful management style, both internally and client-facing, is key to succeeding in business. In order to obtain the best results from your team you need to understand their behavioural preferences and what motivates them.

However, there is no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to successful management styles and people naturally respond in different ways to different techniques. If you were to take a closer look at what makes a business successful, the common denominator is the people, and management techniques need to recognise and invest in this.

One way of understanding your team and yourself is through DISC profiling which was developed by American psychologist Dr William Marston. DISC profiling can give you incredible perspective when it comes to understanding people, how they like to process information, communicate with others and how they like to be communicated with.

DISC helps you acquire a realistic understanding of your strengths and weak spots. This self-knowledge is vital to your success as a manager as your team is only as strong as your strongest weak spots. Being aware of your strengths and weaknesses and how you come across to others, especially when under pressure, can make all the difference when motivating a team to perform well.

As a Master Trainer in DISC profiling, I would describe it as my most effective business tool and I have used DISC profiling for more than twenty years to recruit, retain, manage and motivate my teams. A great way to explain DISC is in terms of sport.

When you really know your team you can get the best out of them. As in any sports team, you want to play your people in their best positions – DISC lets you do this.

The DISC methodology is based on four core personality groupings: Dominant; Influencing; Steady and Compliant. Each of us is a unique combination of one or more styles that vary in intensity, depending on the situation, and whether we are at home or at work. These identify each person’s preferred style of communication, their driving passion, greatest fears and what their potential challenge areas may be.

For example, some people like to be given lots of detail before starting a project; others prefer just the main points; some enjoy working with and among other people, while others prefer a quieter environment. The DISC analysis identifies each person’s preferred style of communication and what their potential challenge areas may be so as a manager you can tailor what support each person needs and how to interact with them to achieve optimum results.

As well as being DISC-aware among your team, remember that understanding our own DISC style is essential and forms the building blocks for successful management, because by learning to modify our own behaviour we can communicate better with others and help everyone to achieve greater success.

Bev James is a business mentor, best-selling author of DO IT! or DITCH IT, CEO of the Coaching Academy and Director of Mentoring at Start-Up Loans www.bevjames.com @Bev_James You can explore DISC further by downloading Bev’s free business App DO IT! OR DITCH IT, with access to a DISC profile questionnaire and a free DISC guide.

Bev James 13

11251 1pg_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 23:35 Page 1

manufacturing, shared the work with a long standing colleague, Mick Brown who also took on the responsibilities for the installation of Commercial Property Agents boards.

The company aims to provide a friendly, fast, efficient and reliable service, from their experienced team in design, manufacture and installation.

Pointing the way forward, Foremost Signs, based near Bristol Airport, was established in 1991 and serve the wider Bristol, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire areas.

With designing and manufacturing facilities, coupled with their own installation team, they offer a full package of sign work including vehicle graphics, banners, pop-ups, posters, agents boards, facia signs, illuminated signs, covering a broad range of requirements for Shops, Business premises, Commercial Propery Agents, Pubs, Schools, Cruise Ships, Builders, vehicle users and many others.

Having their own installation team is considered to be an important factor, giving full control of any job from start to finish.

Their Design Service Team will work with you to produce the right sign to display your business effectively. If the type of sign you want is not shown on the website, Foremost Signs can still help.

Please give them a ring on 01934 863753 to talk over your requirements.

They have a range of high tech sign making equipment including 2 wide format, full colour digital printers which produce outstanding print quality and work with a wide range of materials including Cut Vinyl, Perspex (Acrylic), Compressed PVC (Foamex), Aluminium, Corrugated Polypropylene and Composite panels (Dibond), amongst others.

With Peter and Doreen due to retire, Mark, Helen and Mick will be taking the business forward, having achieved a recession busting formula with steady growth, due they feel, to the friendly professional approach of everyone involved in the company to ensure that their clients receive exactly what they are looking for.

The company is family run and was started from home by Peter who with previous experience in shop fitting and along with his wife Doreen, developed and marketed products to Hospitals, following a spell in Hospital when Peter realised that there were products that could be developed for use in Hospital Wards and around the beds.

An enthusiastic reception from a local hospital generated a successful leaflet marketing campaign to all NHS Hospitals throughout the country. Peter said “We were amazed at the response and realised the potential that could move the company forward.�

Things were going so well that Peter and Doreen were joined in the business by son Mark, and shortly afterwards by daughter, Helen. Helen’s role has evolved into NHS Hospital Co-ordinator, alongside her administrative duties and she is also the main contact for Care Homes and Nursing Homes.

Once fully established producing the Hospital products, it was soon realised that they had the equipment to produce other types of signs, and the company gradually developed into a fully fledged sign company, alongside their work for the healthcare sector.

In 1995, with the sign sector now the major part of their business, Foremost Signs moved to commercial premises. Mark, taking the overall control of the sign sector and dealing with design, sales and

14

Unit 12, Chancellors Pound, Redhill, Bristol BS40 5TZ Call: 01934 863 753 Email: info@foremostsigns.co.uk Visit: www.foremostsigns.co.uk

01275 332 857 www.winfordford.co.uk

New and used Ford cars in Bristol, Bath and North Somerset.

Proud to be associated with Foremost Signs Ltd

Congratulations and thank you Foremost Signs for the service you provide Burston Cook Chartered Surveyors and Commercial Property Consultants dealing with clients throughout the UK and internationally.

www.burstoncook.co.uk 0117 934 9977 Lewins House, Narrow Lewins Mead, Bristol BS1 2NN

11121 1PG._HorseWorld 28/10/2013 16:27 Page 1

Severn Signs Ltd Signmakers & Digital Print Specialist It’s their business to make your business look good.

First impressions count, and no-one knows better than Severn Signs how to create effective signage to present your business in the most positive way.

Effective exterior signage gives a business the opportunity to make a statement about their company and stand out from the rest.

The expert team at Severn Signs will design and manufacture signage to promote your business effectively and individually.

From fascias through to “A” boards, spinning signs, plaques, panel and post systems, Severn Signs offer its customers a range of solutions to meet every need.

They produce, Shop and factory Signs, Illuminated signs Site Boards, Directional Road Signs, Safety signs for schools, hospitals, and offices even vehicle graphics for small, local businesses up to companies with nationwide fleets of lorries.

Formed in 1990, they offer unrivalled expertise in the industry and have developed an outstanding reputation for quality and service throughout the area. The company has developed from making signs for shop frontages and display panels to being able to offer a complete production and installation service, and has become one of the largest independent signmakers in Gloucestershire.

The company is on the move, both literally and figuratively, continued investment in the latest sign making technology to enable the company to offer an in-house design and production facility to meet the needs of their ever increasing client base required more space, so they have moved to Unit R2 on the same business park.

Their clients are as diverse as the products they produce. Local councils, schools, hospitals as well as commercial premises all need signs for direction, advertising and safety.

Well placed, quality sign systems create the right impression on customers and visitors, whether the signs are purely functional or whether they are making a statement about the nature of your business.

Cost effective promotional signage can not only generate brand awareness, it can also increase sales. Point of sale display material can draw attention to specific promotions or special offers and with up to 70% of all purchase decisions being taken within the retail location, a customer friendly environment is essential.

At Severn Signs, they can create stylish interior display systems in many forms, from systems for promotional literature as well as hanging displays, reception signs and innovative floor graphics. These can all be made from your company design specifications or you can leave the concept and design in the capable hands of their in-house design team.

Their expertise doesn’t stop there though in addition to the more obvious factory, shop front and vehicle signage they also produce machine front panels, labels, posters, banners, illuminated signs, magnetics, cut out Perspex lettering and logos, floor graphics, business cards, stationary, leaflets and much more...

Give them a call on 01452 739156 or visit their website www.severnsigns.co.uk to see how they can make your business

stand out from the rest.

Nicklin Business Advisers

are proud to support Severn Signs

1 Church Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 1PA e-mail: info@nicklins.co.uk | t: 01684 290123 | f: 01684 290110

Congratulations to Severn Signs on the move to their new premises Qdex Ltd - for all types of plain and printed adhesive label.

Digitally printed labels a speciality www.qdex.co.uk

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11130 1PG:HorseWorld 04/09/2013 11:13 Page 1

Image is everything in business, which is why Allwear offer a full personalisation service on any garment for your company. Their prestigious client list includes, British Airways, Peters Foods, South Wales Police, Sports Wales, Dawes Cycles, Solar Windows, Hydro, IG Doors, Delyn Packaging and many more...

Whether it be Hi-Vis, boots and shoes, or shirts, ties and trousers, Allwear Solutions Ltd can fulfil your company’s needs. They provide generous discounts for larger orders, so while equipping your complete workforce you can generate substantial savings.

Look good, feel great, and play better in playing kit from Allwear Solutions Ltd.

Calling all schools, sports teams, universities, companies looking for corporate workwear and indeed, any group of people from sports fans to delivery drivers wishing to promote their corporate identity.

Allwear Solutions Ltd are a one stop shop for schoolwear, sports playing kit and equipment, trophies, embroidery and clothing personalisation.

They carry a huge selection of schoolwear for large number of schools throughout South Wales and beyond, many of the schools they supply are listed on their web site, but if the one you want isn’t there please contact them and they will do what they can to help.

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Allwear supply sports kit to Premiership and local teams, and carry a huge range of kit for all sports, personalised with the team’s badge and sponsors' logo, and offer clubs and societies the option of designing their own bespoke kit in their team colours.

With playing shirts to suit all body types from figure hugging, skin tight shirts to looser fitting regular shirts, there is a style to suit everyone. After-match clothing can be designed to co-ordinate with your team colours as can kit bags and training gear.

Their full personalisation service for business, schools or sportswear includes custom embroidery or the latest in screen printing technology, on garments purchased from their catalogue. Logos can be supplied via email or cd-rom disk in many various formats.

Utilising their online store is not only convenient, but you can be rest assured that your order(s) will be delivered straight to your door by their direct courier service, with the added bonus of free delivery on all orders over £100. Well worth grouping together.

Whether you are looking for a new supplier for your school, company or team, or just looking to refresh your corporate image, contact Allwear Ltd on 02920 865530 or visit their web site for an idea of just some the option they can offer www.allwearsolutions.co.uk.

When it comes to workwear, they have a wide range of garments available specifically designed to cope with the demands of the modern working environment.

You can be sure of a friendly, informed reception to your call from a team who really know about clothing.

11128 1PG_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 15:27 Page 1

DOBBINS Industrial & Commercial Cleaning Ltd. Putting an industrial level shine on Bristol for over 35 years.

All types of industrial and commercial cleaning can be undertaken by Dobbins Industrial Cleaning, from house or office cleaning to major undertakings such as the new Severn Bridge.

Dobbins Industrial Cleaning Ltd is a family run business which was established in August 1978 in Shirehampton Bristol by the late Arthur Dobbins, and is now owned and run by Norman Dobbins, Arthur’s younger brother, and his wife, Catherine.

Both have over 30 years experience and knowledge in all aspects of industrial and commercial cleaning.

The company have been careful to retain their reputation for a thorough, personal service, and have deliberately stayed at a modest size in order to keep their standards at the high level their long standing customer base expects.

They have a prestigious list of major clients including Bristol City Council for whom they have worked for 32 years, and a number of other local councils and large organisations.

sites. They deal with all aspects of garden clearance from bramble clearance, tree work, hedges and grass. They are also frequently called on to high pressure (jet wash) paths parking areas walkways etc.

In fact whatever the task, domestic, commercial, large or small, utterly filthy or just a little grubby, Dobbins will have the expertise to tackle it.

The company counts the cleaning of the Severn Bridge amongst their greatest challenges and their greatest successes.

During construction there was a spillage of grease and oil that the wind blew all over the H stanchion.

Dobbins undertook the contract which involved raising specialist equipment and machinery, including a 4,000 psi jetter, to a working level of over 440 feet high. Dobbins’ technicians had to be lifted to the working area in a cradle that they dubbed “the white knuckle ride”. Factor in winds and tides and the scale of the challenge and their subsequent pride in the end result becomes readily understandable.

Please feel free to contact them for a quotation or for some friendly professional advice. They have kept their prices competitive, as Catherine says: “We don’t need to become millionaires, just to do a good job and earn a decent living!”

Telephone: 0117 959 4933 Email: info@dobbinsindustrialcleaning.co.uk

www.dobbinsindustrialcleaning.co.uk Find us on

They offer a wide range of services including house clears and cleans for re-lets for both council and private landlords, kitchen deep cleans for schools, pubs, factories and restaurants, all aspects of house cleans, including builders’ clean and sparkle cleans after refurbishments.

They provide office cleaners and factory high and low level cleans including gutters.

When a crisis occurs, Dobbins are there for clean ups after deaths (coroners), crime scene clear ups, clearing up after squatters including safe sharps collections and disposal, removal of graffiti, clean up after flooding and the removal of pigeon guano.

Dobbins will make sure the surrounding environment is returned to a clean, clear useable condition, dealing with rubbish clearance, (fly tipping) gardens, rivers, streams and disused

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11185 QPD:HorseWorld 28/08/2013 12:48 Page 1

IN an age when it seems paying with cash takes second place to swiping the plastic, Retail Merchant Services has ridden the wave of changing purchasing habits.

With the same breath-taking speed as the electronic payment solutions it provides, in just six years it has boomed from a threeperson concern to a national organisation on course to employ 200 by the end of the year.

About to create a further 40 jobs with the opening of an office in Leeds, the Milton Keynes company is one of the UK and Ireland’s fastest growing independent merchant services providers.

“The speed at which we have developed has meant constant recruitment to keep up with our expansion and increasing demand,” says Managing Director Gareth Poppleton.

“Our team of payment experts can help customers choose the right credit card terminal for their business, whether you need a chip and pin machine, a mobile credit card terminal or a payment option such as website payments, e-commerce accounts or virtual terminal solutions.”

Fully aware of the impact its products and services can have on its clients’ reputations, RMS promises the following: • A UK call centre with calls never diverted abroad.

• Trained and experienced payment experts ready to help.

• To always offer the best available deals.

• No set up or installation fees.

• Capped rates, your fees will not go up.

Offering the fastest transaction speeds, providing the latest top of the range chip and pin terminals, secure and easy processing and the prompt arrival of money into accounts, RMS is dedicated to ensuring its clients’ customers will always return.

For further information visit

www.retailmerchantservices.co.uk Alternatively, telephone 0845 838 6288 Email sales@retailmerchantservices.co.uk

“The setting up two new offices within the last 18 months combined with growing the sales team and keeping up with increasing demand, has meant that we’ve had a lot to deal with but it also represents one of our biggest successes.”

Based in Matrix House, Milton Keynes, Retail Merchant Services (RMS) provides payment solutions to small and medium businesses in the form of chip and pin processing terminals, online payment gateways, SMS or text payments and telephone payments.

Small businesses are offered a membership package which also includes free tax and VAT investigation insurance, a free 24/7 legal helpline and partnering with other business product providers to obtain preferential rates for members.

“For example we partner with Santander for a preferential business bank account that it does not offer on the high street and with Daisy Telecoms for discounted phone and broadband services,” explains Gareth.

Accepting credit and debit card payments is essential in helping modern businesses to grow and more than 28,000 clients are now signed up to RMS’s no-nonsense approach to card payment processing.

More people want to pay you using credit and debit cards We can help you take card payments wherever you are.

CES SERVI

No 5 year contracts No Installation fees No joining fees Low card processing rates

“We understand the needs of businesses and organisations and that comes from consistently listening to our customers,” says Gareth.

“They want to save money, cut costs and keep their profit margins up and we want to help them do all that while maintaining the highest possible level of service.”

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GET IN TOUCH Tel: 0845 838 6288 Email: sales@retailmerchantservices.co.uk Web: www.retailmerchantservices.co.uk

G

INNIN

DW AWAR

on-line

in-store

by phone

11186 1PG:HorseWorld 21/10/2013 13:43 Page 1

Having fun, that’s what it’s all about.

How to keep the children occupied is a question that becomes increasingly pressing for parents and carers as the long summer holidays go by.

“I’m bored!” The words every parent dreads as we juggle all our regular commitments, but parents in Okehampton, Devon have the answer.

Based at Unit 2, North Industrial Road Industrial Estate, with plenty of free parking, The Okey Cokey is an indoor soft play area for children 1 – 12.

Open every day from 10 – 6, whatever the weather, your children can stretch, slide, climb, bounce and bend to their hearts’ content, in a safe supervised environment while you watch on in comfort.

The Okey Cokey has a fantastic range of play equipment, some three storeys high, for maximum fun and excitement, fantastic for the older ones, while the little ones have their own safe play area.

The admission charge gives your child unlimited time to play, at busy times however, the time may be limited to two hours, children under one come free as do mums, dads, grandparents, uncles etc!

Adults can sit and relax enjoying fresh home made food and drink prepared from locally sourced ingredients, from the onsite café. All day cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner is available as well as home made cakes plus a yummy healthy kids menu.

party food. Then there are themed parties, lasting two and a half hours and including one and a half hour play in the main room, half an hour of party food and half an hour of themed activity.

Themes include Football, Arts and Crafts, (sticking, gluing, drawing and painting,) Baking, (Cake or Biscuit decorating,) Music and Dance with age related music. Bouncy Castle, Make Over with nail polish and glitter galore, a range of age related Party Games or a Peppa Pig party with a special guest appearance.

The Okey Cokey is available for exclusive party hire on Sundays from 4pm, exclusive use of all the facilities including a party tea.

The team are very excited about some new introductions including, Bouncy Tuesdays; every Tuesday there will be a bouncy castle at Okey Cokey, and a Toddler Group every Wednesday, held between 10-12, which will include a snack, arts and crafts and story.

BOOK YO

UR

PARTY

NOW!

Birthday parties; finding something a little different that will suit everyone, is another parenting challenge, but once again Okey Cokey provides the answer. You can of course just bring all the children to a normal session, but The Okey Cokey offers a fantastic range of party options, any day of the week.

For prices and times, or to book a party visit the website www.theokeycokey.co.uk telephone 01837 54936 or email theokeycokey@hotmail.co.uk

Standard parties last two hours and allow for one and a half hours play and half an hour exclusive use of the party room for

The Okey Cokey can accept card payments which are processed through Retail Merchant Services.

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11068 6pg 2_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 19:51 Page 1

LIFT

WEST

It can be purchased, hired or leased and, by also offering full finance and service options (the latter only using its own highly trained service engineers), Lift West is a proven one-stop-shop for all materials handling needs.

Nissan, Flexi, Combilift, JCB, Moffett, Genie, Ausa and Aisle Master are just some of the industry-leading names for which the company is an approved supplier.

The opening of purpose-built head offices marks the latest stage in the 25-year non-stop success story that is materials handling equipment specialist Lift West Ltd.

And now, with its updated driver training facility, Lift West accredited by the Independent Training Standards Scheme and Register - can help any client taking on new equipment, ensuring its staff is qualified to use it.

The bespoke offices and workshop facilities, along with an operator training school, at Lopen Head Business Park, South Petherton, reflect the company’s continued expansion and are vital part of its strategy to continue providing industry leading service across the UK. With plans to add two websites to its current four, further expansion of both field and tele sales and moves to hold more new stock and boost showroom sales, Lift West continues to buck the recession.

Further reasons to smile include the securing of large countrywide contracts, beating manufacturers’ own direct deals and the on-going company stability that’s resulting in longterm staff employment - many of its 75 employees have notched up valued long-service awards of 10 years-plus.

The South West’s largest independently owned fork lift truck company, Lift West is proud to have reached its current size and status through 25 years of growth, not acquisition.

In the last four years alone - some of the recession’s toughest - the company’s annual turnover has shot up from £6 million to £13 million.

Whether it’s new or used equipment, Lift West supplies both, from forklift trucks and warehouse equipment to rough terrain, telehandlers and much more.

“Fully trained and responsible operators are essential not only for the safety of personnel and property, but also for maximum productivity,” points out Lift West Sales Director Chris Exley.

GNB are proud to support Lift West Ltd’s continued growth in the South West & South Wales.

Best Wishes for the New Sales & Service Headquarters!

Powering Powering a world world in motion. motion.

GNB Industrial Power have the knowledge and experience of motive power solutions to keep your wheels turning and your business up to speed.

GNB have the largest in-house field-based service engineering department in the industry and our expert team of Service Engineers offer the most complete battery and charger support in the South West / South Wales region.

For more information about our services call 0845 606 4111 email sales-uk@eu.exide.com

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11068 6pg 2_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 19:51 Page 2

LIFT

WEST

“We also run courses, covering fire, first aid, office safety and LPG awareness, designed to give a comprehensive knowledge of all that is required for a safe working environment.”

“This, combined with high sales volumes for class-leading products from key suppliers, means we are very well placed to continue with our performance plans over the next 25 years and beyond.”

Hire or buy, parts and accessories or the complete solution, Lift West has got it covered - and probably, some materials handling aspects that even customers haven’t thought off.

It’s that kind of service and expertise which bring long-term loyalty. “Our customers have been content to renew their equipment with us many times over the last quarter of a century,” says Chris.

NS O I T TULA ORE A R G CON ALDERM FROM t 0333 321 4000 w aldermore.co.uk Aldermore Bank PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. (Financial Services Register number: 204503). Registered Office: 1st Floor, Block B, Western House, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FZ. Registered in England No. 947662. AAF53-0613-000080

We are proud to support Lift West wishing them a successful future in their new premises.

We are the largest gest lift truck attachment manufacturer in Europe.

Offering the widest product range in the market For mo more re information inform inf ormati ation on ple please ase contact co conta ntact ct us call 01925 62 45 70 email sales.uk@bolzoni-auramo.com Unit 10, Taurus Park, Europa Boulevard, West Brook, Warrington, Cheshire WA5 7ZT

| www.bolzoni-auramo.co.uk |

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Lift West Lift We W est moves moves up u p iin n the the world wo world >>

Nissan N issan Forklift Forklift GB GB iiss d delighted elighted tto o ssupport up p o r t

S outh-West fforklift o r k li f t d e a ler L if t W est iin n its it s m ove South-West dealer Lift West move new premises.

From new tto on ew purpose-built p ur p o se - b uil t p re m i s e s . F rom iits ts n ew llocation ocation at at tthe he L op en H e ad B u sin e s s P ark , Lopen Head Business Park, tthe he business b u sin e s s w ill p rovide tthe he ffull ull rrange a nge o will provide off N issan Fo rklif t ttrucks r u c ks w ith the the ssame a me g re a t Nissan Forklift with great llevels evels o se r v i c e . off service.

R eflecting a g reat iinvestment nvestment into into tthe he N is s a n Reflecting great Nissan Fo r k lif t b rand, the the n ew llocation ocation iincludes ncludes an an Forklift brand, new IITSSAR-accredited TSSAR-accredited d river-training sschool cho ol driver-training pr oviding on -site o perator training training to e nsure providing on-site operator ensure m a ximum safety safet y aand nd p roductivit y tto o enhance e nha n c e maximum productivity tthe he quality qualit y and and p er formance o ach ma chine. performance off e each machine.

For m For more ore details details on on the the Nissan Nissan Forklift Forklift rrange ange call call 0800 0800 783 783 6 936 o visit 6936 orr visit w ww.nissanfork klift.co.uk www.nissanforklift.co.uk

V isi t o Visit our ur new new llocation o c at ion Lift L if t West West L Ltd, td , Lopen L open H Head ead Business Business Park, Park , South S outh Petherton P et h e r t o n T TA13 A13 5JH 5 JH

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11068 6pg 2_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 19:51 Page 5

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Save Space - (and money) Fast.

Optimise warehouse profitability faster with Europe’s most popular articulated truck.

The Flexi AC range takes the art of storing more to a new level. Articulated action means it can work in very narrow aisles - increasing warehouse capacity by up to 50%.

50% 50% 30% more space!

less handling!

faster!

And with its ability to load and unload vehicles and deliver to racking in one operation, Flexi eliminates double handling, reducing costs by up to 50%!

t 6Q UP N MJGUT t N BJTMF QFSGPSNBODF t ÂĄ BSUJDVMBUJPO t 5SVF 3BEJVT TBGF turning t 0WFS TIPSU UFSN rental trucks

Add its industry-leading features, designed to increase safety and enhance performance, and it’s easy to see how Flexi’s productivity is able to ensure you achieve optimum profitability in your warehouse!

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Email: info@flexi.co.uk www.flexi.co.uk

Email: enquiries@flexi-training.com www.flexi-training.com

Articulated efficiency from

24

e g n a R AC

FLEXI NARROW AISLE

11068 6pg 2_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 19:52 Page 6

4-Way Handling

LIFT

www.combilift.com

WEST

For further information about Lift West and its products and services, visit www.liftwest.com www.teletruks.co.uk www.moffettforklifts.co.uk and www.ausa-forklift.com Alternatively contact 0800 783 6936 or email info@liftwest.com

s Space saving, safe and productive handling s Robust and versatile s Capacities from 2.5 – 25 tonnes s Diesel / LPG / AC Electric Without Combilift

With Combilift

Contact us for: FREE warehouse design service FREE DVD

We are proud to support Lift West and wish them all the best for the future

Combilift Ltd Gallinagh Co. Monaghan Ireland Tel: +353 47 80500 UK: 07870 976 758 E-mail: info@combilift.com

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11080 2pgs:HorseWorld 16/09/2013 13:52 Page 1

CJ SAUNDERS Agricultural equipment specialists AT the turn of the last century, a small workshop carrying out repairs to agricultural machinery was just what the rural community of Okehampton, Devon, needed.

“However, our experience and well-established presence in the market means we are well placed to source and supply new or used machines from around the UK and Europe for all needs, whether big or small.”

More than 100 years later, the same business is still much in demand - but on a much bigger scale.

Exactly 100 years after it was established, 1995 proved a milestone year for CJ Saunders. This was when it established South West Handling to serve the construction

C J Saunders covers the whole of this rich farming county, providing not just a first-class repairs operation but also sales, services and parts supplies.

Now employing 16 people, the company remains a family concern, helmed by Managing Director Louise Winsor, the founder’s great grand-daughter.

As it’s grown over the decades, C J Saunders has, importantly, made a name for itself with the world’s leading manufacturers of agricultural equipment such as tractors, mowers, bailers and hedge trimmers and is consequently the region’s main approved dealer for some of these companies, including Kubota, Merlo, Lely-Welgar, Dowdeswell, Avant, Alpego and Kockerling.

Congratulations to CJ Saunders Ltd. on 50 years in business, stockists of the Lely grassland range of machinery.

C.J Saunders, most recently, is celebrating gaining the Kubota Tractor franchise for mid and East Devon.

“This is a huge step forward for us as Kubota is one of the largest tractor and engine manufacturers in the world,” says says MD Louise Winsor. “We are now very focused on building this side of the business up.

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HARVEST RESULTS.

www.lely.com

innovators in agriculture

11080 2pgs:HorseWorld 16/09/2013 13:53 Page 2

telehandler manufacturer, and their level of expertise is such that C J Saunders is confident it can repair any machine on site.

Now investing in new equipment to enable the technicians to work on all makes of tractors and machinery, C J Saunders is proud to be a one-stop service shop for all tractors, handlers and harvest equipment.

and farming industries with the sales and service of all types of Merlo handling equipment.

Based at Whiddon Down, here is where the company has its modern equipped workshop, brimming with diagnostics for all makes of tractors, air conditioning repair services and on site hydraulic repairs.

The 24/7 team of Five mobile technicians regularly receive update training from Merlo, the Italian world leading

For further information about the company its products and services go to

www.cjsaunders.co.uk Alternatively email

alan@southwesthandling.co.uk or telephone 01647 231251 • Compact size – machine weights 650 - 1700 kg.

Easy transport on standard plant trailer • Strength – lifting capacities 350 - 1500 kg • Manoeuvrability – articulation and compact size allows access to area other machines cannot reach.

• Light footprint – can be operated on sensitive surfaces • Power – massive power to weight ratio and auxiliary hydraulic capacity • Versatility – one machine for many jobs!

One machine, many jobs Avant loaders have been imported into the UK for nearly 20 years and there is now an experienced dealer network plus an extensive userbase of very satisfied customers. Avant mini loaders are available in six different series and can be equipped with a variety of useful options. In addition, there is a choice of over 100 attachments to enable almost every job imaginable to be tackled with ease.

AVANT Tecno (UK) Ltd.

Manor Farm, Bridgham, Norfolk, NR 16 2RX Tel (01953) 714 896 Fax (01953) 714 897 E-mail: sales@avanttecno.co.uk

Made in Finland

www.avanttecno.co.uk 27

10986 1pg 2_Feature Template 14/10/2013 14:47 Page 1

British Welding Equipment is based in Bedminster Bristol and was established in 1952 as a family business. The company has retained the strong ethos of the founders where nothing is too much trouble for their customers.

The company serves a wide range of traditional industries including major engineering companies, smaller fabrications, and the motor trade, but is branching out into supplying the local colleges and the general public, across the South West.

In response to a growing artistic and creative community of artists, sculptors, and jewellery makers in the Bristol area, British Welding Equipment always carries stock of the specialist gases, welding tools and requirements for this fast developing sector of the market.

The company has a number of longstanding account customers who rely on their prompt efficient delivery service of the right products at the right time.

Steve Elliott, one of the directors, joined the company 40 years ago after an apprenticeship in engineering, and said he liked it so much that he never thought of going anywhere else.

Over the years this friendly knowledgeable company have become known for their excellent service, and wide range of welding equipment and consumables, including welding gases, abrasives, safety wear, PPE, and tools.

Although British Welding Equipment is a small company they are big in terms of service, range and knowledge. The first visit to Bedminster to source your supplies will be one that you will be pleased you made.

For further information contact British Welding Equipment Telephone: 0117 9231233, Email: bweld@hotmail.co.uk Fax: 01179637988

British Welding can also offer a hire and repair service for most types of welding machines.

They stock many of the well known brands such as Esab, Murex, Lorch, Parweld, Wilkinson Star, 3M, and Albee welding gases.

The company have only recently included Albee gases in their range and are delighted by the success of a scheme to offer rental free cylinders to businesses and casual customers, in return for a one off charge. The scheme has been so successful that Steve and his fellow directors are looking into ways of expanding the idea.

In addition to Albee welding gases they have also started stocking Albee nitrogen gas, widely used in a range of air conditioning applications.

The three directors are very “hands on” and are always available for help and advice. They help with packaging, deliveries, answering the phones, serving customers at the counter, or even, as Steve joked, “sweeping the floors!”

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British Welding Equipment Stock Rental Free Cylinders for Oxygen, Acetylene and MIG/TIG Gases

For more information visit our website

www.albeegascylinders.com

11063 1PG_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 15:53 Page 1

Telephone:

01823 251 734 Montaz Engineering is not just keeping companies’ heavy equipment moving; they are on the move themselves.

businesses and home owners that, because it is on wheels, doesn’t usually need planning permission.

When the next door premises became available, Jason Bailey Founder and MD, seized the opportunity to expand. The purchase gives Montaz more space to allow them to install more machinery, take on more staff, and accommodate more vehicles for hire and those waiting to be repaired.

With testing forming so much of his business, Jason intends to employ a full time tester in the near future. This is typical of his forward thinking and professional approach. He explained that the current rules governing testing requires that the tester is independent and competent. Jason feels that these rules are sure to be tightened up in the near future and placed on a more regulated footing. Rather like an MOT. Jason believes tests will only be carried out by registered testers that have the experience and knowledge of the machinery that is being certified.

He is also keen to approach insurance companies and offer his services of testing equipment. Many insurance companies insist on having equipment tested for health and safety purposes. He says that he has seen many examples of “poor testing”, with vehicles that have been passed for insurance purposes being brought into him for repairs very shortly afterwards.

The business has grown and developed since Jason set it up in 2009 as a one man operation. Over the years, as his reputation grew, the business has expanded and he now employs 4 full time people and several part timers.

Montaz Engineering is a general engineering company and although they have many large companies and local authorities on their books, Jason is always ready for a challenge and will repair anything “from tractors to bar machines!”

The future is looking good for Montaz and through their apprenticeship scheme they are training the engineers of the future; teaching young people the skills which will continue to keep our economy moving.

Montaz Engineering Fideoak Mill, Bishops Hull, Taunton TA4 1AF

A large proportion of their business concerns the hire, repair and testing of heavy commercial vehicles, particularly dustcarts for various local authorities, to ensure compliance with all current legislation.

For local authorities they have a range of vehicles available for hire including skip lorries and dust carts.

They also repair and test tail lifts, cranes or hiabs including load testing; they have the South West agency for HMF Cranes and also carry out LOLER inspections on plant and fork lift trucks.

Among their more unusual capabilities is the manufacturing of chassis for “Shepherd Huts”, not apparently only used by shepherds these days but convenient extra space for

Don’t have time for Health and Safety?

Feeling overwhelmed?

We can help you!

Proud to be supporting Montaz Engineering Call the team now on 01278 671995 or visit our website www.c2safety.co.uk 29

11092 1 pg _CD Engineering 28/10/2013 15:38 Page 1

Manifold Serving the hydraulics and pneumatics industries for 38 years.

Established in 1975, as a dedicated subcontract machining company for the hydraulic industry, Sleabridge has specialised within the hydraulics and pneumatics industry to provide bespoke manifolds and integrated circuits, ranging from prototype development and one off production, to repeated batch quantities of a few hundred.

Having outgrown their premises the company moved to their present larger, 10,000 sq.ft facility in 2011, the new site gives them the space to continue an ambitious expansion programme.

Hydraulic systems working through manifold blocks and valves are the bedrock of many power train systems. Sleabridge Limited works within the hydraulics and pneumatics industry to provide bespoke machined manifolds and integrated circuit components.

A special discipline at Sleabridge is the prototype development of manifold blocks. Although Sleabridge are not hydraulic system design engineers, they do work very closely with their clients to help design the optimum manifold block for a given application. Barry Luke from Sleabridge explained, “We are able to translate ideas and sketches into fully working components. Our input will often include advice on the best ways of machining design features, and we are proficient at adapting design evolutions to cause minimum disruption and cost. “Quantities range from one-off prototypes to repeated batch production quantities of a few hundred. By keeping within this market we find we are able to offer the best lead times and value for money to our clients, who fully appreciate this advantage.�

Along with major international clients, such as Parker Hannifin, the Eaton Corporation, Hydraforce Hydraulics Ltd and Bosch, Sleabridge has a number of smaller clients who design their own bespoke applications and utilise the company’s advanced manufacturing skills and knowledge to their own advantage.

Precision Engineers Sleabridge’s long experience of their markets means that they are proud to offer, “The best lead times and costs to our clients current and future.�

Unit D Eden Works, Blacknell Lane Industrial Estate South Street, Crewkerne TA18 7HE Phone: 01460 78722 Fax: 01460 78723 Email: sales@sleabridge.com Visit: www.sleabridge.com

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We are pleased to support Sleabridge Ltd, BARRETT who we have enjoyed a Engineering Steel long lasting working relationship with, supplying Bright & Black, Carbon & Alloy Steels.

The manufacturing process needs parts to be precision engineered.

Precision engineering is all about the repeatable, controlled, predictable cutting of metals and plastics parts. Sleabridge’s skilled machinists have years of experience and knowledge gained from producing engineered components to tight tolerances.

Custom CNC machined components have become standard over the last 50 years. At Sleabridge they have a number of 3 axis CNC milling machines and CNC lathes to produce precision machined parts.

The company holds ISO 9001:2008 and takes pride in using the skills of its workforce in machining precision parts in a variety of materials. Their machinists have the ability to make complex parts to the highest standards, their combined wealth of experience means that their skills can be transferred to many new areas. Over the years, those skills have been utilised at Sleabridge for the manufacture of cylinders, filter housings, valve blocks, line bodies, pneumatic components, HIC bodies, optical devices, and replacement parts for obsolete machinery and vehicles.

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Visit our new website www.barrettengsteel.com for more information on how we can help your business.

116 Burcott Road, Avonmouth, Bristol BS11 8AF T: 0117 316 5400 F: 0117 3165451 E: southwestsales@barrettengsteel.com

11000 1pg_Feature Template 28/10/2013 18:59 Page 1

Designed by Musicians for Musicians Denis Wick, one of the most widely known and internationally respected trombonists in the world, who was for many years Principal Trombone of the London Symphony Orchestra is delighted to announce that Denis Wick Products has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade 2013.

The announcement was made on the Queen’s birthday, the 21st April. The award was made for the company’s achievements in the export market as over 80% of the company’s production is sold overseas, and there is hardly a band or orchestra anywhere in the world that does not use Denis Wick’s products.

Denis Wick is partnered by his son Stephen, also a musician.

Their factory in Poole, Dorset, produces the finest mutes and mouthpieces on the market. Each item is hand made using a process called metal spinning, as Denis says, “Rather like making a pot on its side.” This hand crafting creates mutes which are hard and resonant, ideal for use in every different kind of music from jazz to orchestral.

The process started in the Royal Festival Hall in 1967/8 when Denis decided to develop his own mouthpiece in response to the very dry acoustic of the Hall. The first mouthpieces were quickly taken up by players and became popular all over the world.

As well as investing in the latest CNC equipment for mouthpiece production and in other high-tech machinery, Denis Wick Products has also taken on trainees to learn the traditional craftbased skills, thus ensuring that these specialist skills are passed on to a new generation of highly trained workers.

The company also runs an apprenticeship scheme to help students to develop a wide range of metal working skills and to acquire nationally recognised qualifications.

When Denis was asked what he would particularly like to emphasise, he said “We don’t produce anything that has not been designed for purely musical reasons; that’s important!”

Please visit their web site

www.deniswick.com

for an overview of their product range, Telephone +44 (0)1202 665100 or Email: tradesales@deniswick.com

The company has now sold millions of mutes and mouthpieces and continues to refine its designs and bring out innovative new products. Recent successes have included the best-selling Ultra mouthpiece range, the new American Classic trumpet mouthpieces and the ground-breaking travel mute series.

On 1st July 2008 they moved into their current larger premises in Poole, to rationalise operations and accommodate more staff.

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11053 1pg_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 18:10 Page 1

Anton Parris Motorcycles 14 Pendaver Street Tucking Mill Cornwall TR14 8RF Tel: 01209 719 767 Fax: 01209 610 641 Personal service with good value is the core principle behind Anton Parris Motorcycles.

The company deals in both used and new bikes, primarily from Suzuki from whom they have a 40 year good service award, but do carry a number of other makes. Anton is very pleased by the quality and service he gets from a Taiwanese company, TGB. He says the quality is great, they offer a great back up service, and are very accommodating.

Anton Parris also undertake regular servicing and repairs, and carry a wide range of spares and accessories.

Anton has been in the motorcycle business since 1966. In 1983 he took the opportunity to buy out the company he was working for, but continued trading from the old premises.

Anton regrets the rise of large impersonal companies, where clients bring their bike for service or repair and just drop off their keys, for fault diagnosis and service issues established by a computer.

He says there is no pleasure in just “plugging in a computer and pushing a button,” he still takes satisfaction from listening to an engine, working out what’s wrong and actually fixing something.

The bike trade has changed greatly over the years with the age of the average biker now 48. Enthusiasts can pay £20,000 for a Gold Wing or other iconic bike, whereas cheap and unreliable Chinese imports have damaged biking, especially for youngsters.

He is saddened that young bikers, buying the cheap bike which is all often all they can afford, are sometimes put off biking altogether if that first bike proves unreliable, and will miss out on the camaraderie and pleasures that being part of the biking community brings.

Anton should know, introduced to bikes by his father, he took his first rides around local farms from the age of 12, and has had many years of pleasure and enjoyment from his bikes.

So from advice from someone who really knows all about bikes, talk to Anton Parris Motorcycles about your next bike. You can be sure of fair prices across the board, and if you need a deal, ask, they will always be willing to do whatever is possible.

In 1986, he took the bold step of relocating to larger premises, and at the same time, rebranded the business under his own name.

His gamble paid off, a location with more foot fall and easily accessible, just off the A30 on the outskirts of Camborne, rather than “out in the sticks” has provided the company with a steady flow of new and regular, longstanding clients.

Their customers value the personal, hands on approach that Anton and his friendly team provide; they will always make time to chat and catch up, building relationships that last.

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Give them a call on 01209 719 767 or call in for a chat and to see what’s new www.antonparris.co.uk

32180 1pg_Transport Warehousing 09/10/2013 12:06 Page 1

Fleet Management for the Modern World Increasingly, software savvy, IT literate, fleet decision-makers are waking up to the fact that today’s hi-tech vehicle management systems can seamlessly interact with other internal and external software to dramatically improve operating effectiveness and efficiency.

Ever-evolving sophisticated web-based software developments mean that fleet operators no longer need to manually input every item of information, from a driver’s name to a car’s number plate and from a fuel purchase to a vehicle service.

Hours spent on form filling are now being put to more efficient use.

Such techno-awareness couldn’t be more critical at a time when the revenues of the $9billion global fleet management industry are expected to triple within the five years.

UK-based trafficsafe.org reported the recent findings from market research company ABI Research.

Market penetration in the commercial freight segment is already high, said the company, which has forecast that the main drivers for the extended growth out to 2018 are based on four key elements: 1 Many HGV manufacturers are offering fleet management systems that are preinstalled during vehicle manufacturing as a result of OEM partnerships. Major manufacturers like IVECO, DAF, Scania and Volvo already offer such a package but the number of truck suppliers providing built-in fleet management is expected to grow.

2 Some fleet management system suppliers are focusing on specialist segments or smaller fleets, creating markets where companies would not otherwise consider fleet management as an option.

3 New and emerging markets will come on stream including Russia, South America and Asian countries.

4 An increased level of knowledge of the benefits of fleet management within the market especially in such areas as improved road safety and better fuel consumption is driving additional demand and enabling fleet management vendors to consolidate on existing markets.

With such a major upturn in the fleet management industry forecast, operators will not be able to afford to spend time in the ‘Dark Ages’ entering every single detail relating to a company fleet.

Jason Francis, Managing Director of fleet software and occupational road safety expert Jaama says increasing numbers of fleet decision-makers understand the importance of choosing technology that can fully integrate with systems operated by external suppliers and other company departments, such as HR, payroll and finance, and which can also be accessed by drivers.

“Until only a few years ago, they still had to manually enter virtually every single piece of fleet relevant information,” he says. “Not only was this time-consuming and administratively cumbersome, it could be prone to mistakes. Additionally, the way data was stored meant that it was difficult to

monitor, measure and compare and contrast the performance of individual drivers and vehicles effectively. Today’s computer software is able to seamlessly populate systems in real time, ensuring up-to-theminute accurate management information.”

Data and information feeds from contract hire and leasing suppliers, daily rental companies, fuel management operators, fast-fit organisations and residual value suppliers, for example, can now update fleet management systems, along with information supplied by drivers - mileages, expense claims and working hours - and information from other departments on, for example, new starters, employee promotions and changes in driver circumstances.

Says James: “The technology is now available and today’s forward-thinking fleet operators can use it to their advantage. In turn the management information they can supply to their bosses on every facet of fleet functionality has never been more detailed or more accurate.

For those fleet managers who fear the advance of technology would leave them without a job, James advises: “This is far from the truth as the technology revolution enables fleet decision-makers to be far more strategic in their job and less processdriven.”

He also has plenty of reassurance over fears that the volume of data available and reports generated by super-efficient software could prove unmanageable.

“It is true that data available to fleet operators has increased by a factor of 50 in the last decade and will continue to increase,” he acknowledges. “However, they can decide what they want to monitor and measure by exception and can customise the software to meet their own individual requirements.”

So decide what would benefit your company, from simple GPS tracking to sophisticated real time feedback, do your research, and start saving both time and money!

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11110 2pgs:HorseWorld 16/09/2013 10:31 Page 1

A.J REYNOLDS CAR & TRUCK SERVICES LTD WHEN Andy Reynolds stepped up to receive the award naming his business Garage of the Year 2013, it was the proudest moment of his career.

His Somerset company had just been elected the best in the country by the AutoCare network of independent service and repair garages at its recent annual conference.

“It was such an honour to be recognised and to win,” grins the founder of AJ Reynolds Car and Truck Services. “My proudest moment to date!”

But Andy has many reasons to be proud of his Frome vehicle repair and service garage, not least because, uniquely, it works on everything, from the smallest car to 44-ton trucks.

He’s also proud of his quality technicians and sought-after apprentice programme which has already trained nine skilled mechanics from the local area to date.

And he’s proud of his garage being part of the AutoCare network - to be a member, every one must satisfy strict standards of workmanship and use only the best quality parts and consumables.

In return, AutoCare provides technical training, support and numerous other benefits, such as automatic membership of www.approved garages.co.uk, which helps the public find garages RAC inspected and approved for the Motor Codes Organisation.

“We want the best for our customers and to treat them like family so they will automatically use us,” says Andy, also a VOSA VTS council member.

“Being a member of AutoCare gives me complete independence to run my garage but it is there when I need it for support.

A. J A. J.. Re Reynolds yno olds C Car ar & T ruck S ervices L Lt td Truck Services Ltd Congratulations C ongratulations on 2 22 2 years years in business business and good luck k ffor or the future future from from everyone everyon ne at AutoCare.

AutoCare.

Part of a well-respected network of over 6000 garages internationally.

We will help get your vehicle ready for those weekends away and long-distance trips.

We are proud to support AJ Reynolds Truck Service and wish them all the best for the future

AutoCare Garage of the Year 2013

Tel: T el: 013 01373 73 451383 451383 Unit 18 - V Vallis allis Mills Trading Tradin ng Estate Estate - Frome Frome - BA11 BA11 3DT 3D DT

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11110 2pgs:HorseWorld 16/09/2013 10:31 Page 2

Today, AJ Reynolds provides the complete range of garage services for all makes of cars and trucks including: MOTs, engine management and diagnostics, welding and fabrication, 24/7 callout and breakdown service, repairs, servicing and tal lift weight checks, LOLER and inspections. It also works very closely with parts Factor, Auto Components at Westbury.

“It’s so beneficial for the car department that I have joined its equivalent, TOP Truck, for my truck department and look forward to the same support, without which we couldn’t have progressed” Learning his trade during six years as a REME engineer and vehicle mechanic, Andy left the Army in 1984 and for seven years was a service supervisor maintaining a fleet of trucks and trailers before launching A J Reynolds Truck Services in 1991.

What started as an 11,00sq ft garage went through a couple of moves to become a 4,500sq ft workshop on the Vallis Mills Trading Estate in 1999 with the car department added in 2002.

It’s enough to keep anyone busy but Andy is putting the pedal to the metal on boosting the business still further, with plans such as investing in new equipment and further training, developing a new website and boosting its social media presence, working on initiatives to encourage truck customers and developing its Top Truck relationship.

For further information about AJ Reynolds, and its services, visit www.ajreynolds.co.uk. Alternatively call 01373 451383 or email desk@ajreynolds.co.uk

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11275 2pgs_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 15:09 Page 1

James and John’s experience has been mostly in the premium sector of the retail car industry and they aim to provide their customers with a total experience in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. From the moment you walk into the dealership you will be made warmly welcome and as you discuss your requirements be instantly aware of the extent of their knowledge and enthusiasm for this exclusive and exciting sector of the market.

Minerva Sports and Prestige is the first fully independent Car Dealer specialising in the premium used car market in Bath and West Wiltshire for many years. Minerva Sports and Prestige is the trading wing of Minerva Bath Ltd a company owned and operated by James Currant and John Lyddy.

If you are not able to find the exact car you want from among their range of top quality used vehicles they will, given a little time, be able to source it for you, thanks to their extensive network of contacts throughout the trade.

Minerva was launched when James and John decided to start their own independent prestige dealership utilising the experience and knowledge gained during their combined total of 75 successful years in motor retailing, and as former directors of Wood BMW Group.

John, who is Joint managing director of Minerva Sports and Prestige, said: “The opportunity to start our own dealership and purchase the premises was one we couldn’t refuse. We’re delighted that Monahans has been on board from the start.

They have been dynamic in their approach and have worked hard to deliver the solutions we required for our new venture.”

If you would like to consider financing your vehicle they work with Santander Consumer Finance to find the best package for you. For your complete peace of mind, Minerva Sports and Prestige is an Authorised Representative of ITC Compliance Ltd who are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority'

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11275 2pgs_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 15:09 Page 2

Minerva Sports and Prestige offers a full range of Aftersales facilities from servicing and repair, arranging your MOT, to vehicle enhancing products and even body repairs, should this become necessary, during your vehicle ownership.

Should you want to sell your vehicle or trade it in against a newer model, come in and have a chat, they will be happy to help.

Their offering is all about service and customer satisfaction, dealing as they do with the best vehicles; they pride themselves on backing that up by providing the best service and the best aftercare to keep your prized vehicle in tip top condition.

The carefully selected team are always on hand to help with your needs, so please visit the website www.minervabath.co.uk telephone on 01225 850030 or drop in at your convenience to their site on Box Road, Bathford.

36 Box Road, Bathford, Bath, BA1 7QH James and John look forward to welcoming you soon.

UK’s largest branch network O O O O O

Award winning service 24/7 Emergency glass replacement Direct bill your insurance company Competitive prices for 3rd party insured Professional qualified technicians 108 fitting centres and over 800 skilled mobile technicians Repair first policy to keep costs down

O O

All the very best to Minerva Bath for your future success.

We are delighted to be associated with you.

4 Stable Yard, Windsor Bridge Road, Bath BA2 3AY Call: 01225 335335 www.nationalwindscreens.co.uk

The UK’s largest distributor of parts, tools, accessories and body panels

BRANCHES THROUGHOUT THE MIDLANDS

0845 603 3636

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11273 QPD 1pg:HorseWorld 25/09/2013 15:09 Page 1

sound and their industry expertise undoubted. I look forward to hearing further good news about Minerva.”

Monahans is a leading firm of Chartered Accountants and Independent Financial Advisers in the West of England, with offices in Bath, Swindon, Chippenham, Trowbridge and Glastonbury.

Each office delivers core accountancy services as well as providing additional specialised services aimed at owner–managed businesses and private individuals. These services include Human Resources, Corporate Finance and Strategic Business Improvement in conjunction with General Commercial Advice and Financial Services that are tailored to meet the requirements of each client.

Monahans forecasts great things for new prestige car dealership, Minerva Sports and Prestige.

Monahans were approached by Jim Currant and John Lyddy to assist with starting their own business, following a combined total of 75 successful years in motor retailing, as former directors of Wood BMW Group. The men wanted to use their combined experience to launch their own independent dealership on the outskirts of Bath, specialising in sports and prestige cars, and quickly identified the old Dunsford Landrover site on Box Road as the perfect premises.

Monahans’ success comes from the friendly down to earth relationships they build with all their clients, the extensive portfolio of products and services offered, and their desire for constant improvement to ensure they always respond to their clients needs.

Monahans is a member of MHA, a fast growing UK wide association of respected and progressive independent accountants and business advisers, all sharing common values and goals

For more information please visit the Monahans website:

www.monahans.co.uk or call 01225 785520

Monahans Corporate Finance team were able to help the business partners to put together a business plan and forecasts to assist them with raising the required finance to purchase the site. Jim commented that “we were under no illusion that by working with professionals such as Monahans we would increase our opportunity of not only securing the facilities we required but also ensuring that we had a profitable and valuable business moving forward.” Their £1.5m investment was supported by Barclays and advisors, Quro Financial Ltd, and has enabled them to transform the derelict 11,000 sq ft premises into a new showroom and vehicle service centre. Santander was able to offer the required Stock Finance and Monahans continue to provide support with accountancy services.

John, who has become Joint Managing Director of Minerva Sports and Prestige, said: “The opportunity to start our own dealership and purchase the premises is one we couldn’t refuse.

We’re delighted that Monahans has been on board from the start.

They have been dynamic in their approach and have worked hard to deliver the solutions we required for our new venture.”

Monahans are proud to have helped Minerva achieve their success to date.

Call us on 0845 3193030 or visit our website to discover how we could help your business.

Monahans Corporate Finance manager, Alison Bradshaw, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to be part of the team assisting Jim and John with their new venture at a particularly difficult time for new businesses. Putting together the plan and detailed forecasts helped us all to understand that their business strategy was

LLike ike us us on on Facebook Facebook 38

Connect C onnect on on LinkedIn LinkedIn

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FFollow ollow us us on on TTwitter witter

11122 1 pg _CD Engineering 28/10/2013 15:59 Page 1

TAUNTON CARAVAN SERVICES LTD Taunton Caravan Services are a family run business, based in Taunton Somerset, who have been providing high quality caravan servicing for over 26 years.

The company is run by John and Debbie Cox, but was set up

by Debbie’s father when he realised that there was a lack of specialist caravan repairers in the area. Over the years the company have built up a first class reputation for top quality work and service. Debbie and John are assisted in the business by their friendly and experienced team of Bev, Alan and Shaun.

Taunton Caravan Services Ltd is an approved workshop independently assessed by the Approved Workshop Scheme.

You know it is important to look after your Tourer or Motorhome, but when you do have work done, you want to be sure that your vehicle has been serviced by trained and experienced professionals.

When it comes to regular servicing, Taunton Caravan Services will service any make of Caravan or Motorhome. Should they find a fault they will contact you straight away so you can decide what action to take.

Taunton Caravan Services Ltd is also approved for Warranty work on Bailey Caravans, The Explorer Group and Coachman Caravans. They can provide an estimate, and once accepted the work is booked in and carried out as soon as possible.

Among the services they provide are included.

•

Approved for Warranty work on Bailey Caravans, The Explorer Group and Coachman Caravans.

•

Damp and body work repairs.

•

The fitting, service and repair of Motor movers. Powrtouch, Alko Mammut and Truma movers.

•

Servicing and fitting to Alko ATC Anti-Snake System

•

Refills for Truma light gas bottles.

•

Agents for: Alko, Truma, Dometic, Thetford, Whale, and Fiamma

They also offer caravan and Motorhome storage facility with alarmed compound and 24 hour access.

So visit the friendly family run firm you can trust to look after your caravan or Motorhome before something goes wrong and spoils your holiday.

It is well worth while giving your caravan or Motorhome regular checks and servicing, just as you would your car, and for very similar reasons, your safety and that of your family depend upon it. Particularly when you shut it up at the end of the season, it is so disappointing if your holiday is spoilt because something needs attention that could have been dealt with in the off season.

Caravans and Motorhomes give their owners a great deal of pleasure, but when something does need looking at, it can be a problem to know who to trust. The local garage may be able to help, but it is always far better to use the services of a specialist caravan and Motorhome approved repairer who will have the right tools, workshop and experienced staff ready to help.

For further information about Taunton Caravan Services, or to email an enquiry, Visit: www.tauntoncaravanservices.co.uk Call: 01823 443491

Award winning tax advice Find out what makes us different: call 01823 624450 or see what our clients say about us on our website at www.acmole.co.uk

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11158 QPD:HorseWorld 16/10/2013 10:00 Page 1

Matt and the team will involve you in the planning of your horse’s trip right from your first conversation. For instance on the longer trips abroad they will explain for how long each day they will travel, and where they will be stabled.

Each member of staff is fully qualified, highly experienced drivers and grooms, having worked with British and European Team members to the highest possible standards. Excellent references are of course available.

eye spy my ride Eyespymyride is taking the equestrian world by storm, established in January 2011 by Matt Hind and Heidi Troniseck; they offer a new and different type of specialised national and international horse transport service.

He is delighted with the way the service has taken off and says “The popularity of our service has really taken us by surprise.” Their client base is growing steadily as the word gets round, but Matt is determined not to compromise on service.

During the Olympics 2012 the company was extremely proud to be the transport provider of choice for both the Swedish and Finnish Dressage teams from their training camps to Greenwich, for their events.

Now that the business is well established, Heidi has gone a different route, but is obviously still very much part of the equestrian scene, and taking a keen interest in the progress of Eyespymyride, which she describes as a “great concept.”

An experienced rider, show jumper and polo player himself, Matt knows just how important it is that a horse arrives fresh and unstressed at its destination and is careful not to do unnecessary miles just to make up a shared load.

His service allows you to follow your horse all the way through its journey in real time. Matt explained: “We want to be completely open and honest about our service, giving you the opportunity to access our vehicle tracking system (on request) and so being able to monitor your horse’s journey. We are also in the process of adding to this a live streaming facility enabling you to actually watch your horse on the move!

“We operate an Oakley built forward facing 9 horsebox, mounted on a Topline Scania, supported by Scania Lifeline which gives you peace of mind knowing that your horse is travelling in the 'most sought after horsebox' mounted on the 'King of the Road'”.

Last October the truck went to Oakley’s for a refurbishment inside and they are now able to ‘tube’ all the horses. This means that each horse can have their own separate area; fully self contained which minimizes the risk of injury significantly.

40

Eyespymyride also offers all the services needed for the world wide shipment of horses including ferry bookings, export licences, health paperwork and journey planning. If you wish to use your own truck they will help you to plan realistic travel days, stabling and through their large network of UK and European transport colleagues, can be there for you throughout your journey if you need them.

Matt says: “Our aim is to offer a bespoke tailor made service specializing in door to door transportation of your horses”

For more information visit the website www.eyespymyride.com Mobile 07884293267 Office 01403783213 or email Matt at matt@eyespymyride.com

11134 1PG_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 17:38 Page 1

During her career Molly became A Fellow of the British Horse, a Fellow of the Institute of the Horse and a Fellow of the Association of British Riding Schools and was known as the acclaimed author of “Thinking Riding”.

Though there have been changes, Talland is still a family business with Molly being active in the students training until she reached the age of 89. Talland is now under the direction of Molly’s daughter renowned international dressage rider and trainer Pamela Hutton and her husband Brian.

“We rock,” proudly declares the staff at the world-renowned Talland School of Equitation in Gloucestershire. And if you need further proof that the dressage, show jumping, cross country and side saddle school is pretty hot to trot, just look at the list of international equestrians on the school’s alumni.

In 2006, Talland made its final move to Ampney Knowle, near Cirencester where facilities such as large modern American Barn, a large indoor, and outdoor school, and student accommodation block have been built specifically to cater for the needs of a diverse training centre for horse and rider. A café and spectating areas have also been included for visitors or riders guests.

Since the move to Ampney Knowle, the Talland team has been constantly improving the already impressive facilities and it plans to continue as lessons for clients and livery services increase.

“Despite trials and tribulations we are still here after more than 60 years,” affirms Pamela. “It’s taken time to become fully established after our move and in the last two years, despite a strong following of clients, we like many other business owners have seen a fall in spending.

“Horse-riding, whilst addictive is a recreational sport and thus seen as a luxury which is cut when money is scarce. Yet as a business we have over 80 horses and they all need to be fed and maintained whatever the economic climate. Whether, rain or shine our fantastic staff and students are dedicated to the care of our horses and the standard of our training.

Over the years Talland has been lucky enough to cater for the training needs of riders such as Jeremy Spring (one of the Irish silver winning team at the 1991 European Championships), Rodney Powell- (winner of the 1991 Badminton Three Day Event and a British Team member) and Ireland’s Gerry Sinnott (ranked 6th individually in 1976 Olympics) - who is also on the School’s instructional team.

“We are unique because riders can train on high quality experienced horses that are more than capable of teaching the higher movements in the dressage and show jump arena” explains Pamela with a smile. Talland offers career courses for those looking to work in the equine industry and training from first experience in the saddle up to top level competition.

“We are exceptionally proud of the training that we offer. We have instructors with a wealth of experience and horses Schooled up to Grand prix and PSG available to our clients and we still have successful riders out competing and representing Talland positively.”

For further information about Talland, its courses and livery services, go to www.talland.net Alternatively email office@talland.net or telephone 01285740155 Photography Courtesy of Bob Langrish The Old

Brewhouse More recently, Talland has been proud to provide dressage training to Badminton competitor and 2012 Olympic Show jumper Joseph Murphy. This year, Talland has also be happy to share in the success of young rider and Talland born and bred Pippa Hutton who gained the highest British score for 11 years at the European Dressage Championships.

Historically, Talland was originally founded by Mrs RyderRichardson in 1958 making it one of the UK’s oldest riding schools. Mrs Ryder-Richardson’s daughter Molly Sivewright went on to successfully establish the business in Gloucester and gained a fantastic reputation via her achievements as a competition rider both nationally and internationally.

Cirencester Bed and Breakfast

$ GHOLJKWIXO WK &HQWXU\ WRZQ KRXVH EHG DQG EUHDNIDVW IXOO RI FKDUP DQG FKDUDFWHU The Old BrewhousE: 5-7 London Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2PU Visit: www.theoldbrewhouse.com Tel / Fax: 01285 656099 Email: info@theoldbrewhouse.com

41

11094 1pg_Glentworth Letting 1pg 11/07/2013 14:49 Page 1

With a waiting list of tenants, Glentworth Lettings is keen to hear from new and potential landlords.

“Our experienced team possesses a wide range of industry knowledge and staff regularly attending legal training days and refreshers to keep pace with new legislation and currents regulations,” emphasises Darren. “We are constantly looking to improve the business but our main aim, on a daily basis is to provide good customer service.”

Although it has some staff based in other parts of the country, Glentworth Lettings’ head office, with its accounts, maintenance, enquiries, and legal departments is the one-stop shop for all things letting. This is especially convenient for landlords with multiple properties in different areas, saving them the chore of dealing with multiple letting agencies when at Glentworth Lettings everything is managed under one roof..

The prospect of making a property available as a home or business to strangers may seem daunting, especially to firsttime landlords, but not if Glentworth is on side.

The lettings specialist, which handles multi and single property portfolios nationwide, can deal with every aspect on a landlord’s behalf, be it just general residential property management, basic maintenance to full refurbishment, related financial services, insurance and protected rent collection.

Further peace of mind is provided by the company’s use of state-of-the-art software for producing inventories, check in/out reports and midterm inspections, and its ARLA membership guaranteeing 100% money protection which allows Glentworth Lettings to deliver at the highest of business standards.

“We take property management very seriously,” declares Managing Director Darren Clapp. “Those seeking an agent to look after their property, provide peace of mind and give the professional advice needed to safeguard their investment, need look no further.”

Such is its reputation for high standards and professional service that Glentworth Lettings relies on referrals as its main source of leads for new properties, but being equally popular with tenants, means that it has a long list of people in all areas, especially Bristol and Weston waiting to rent so we are keen for new landlords to get in touch.

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The last year has seen the agency team up with specialist lettings report provider Keystone Property Reports Ltd to use its software and the move has quickly continued the story of 25% year on year growth which began four years ago when Darren arrived at the already established business.

“We’re seeing results such as improved service and our portfolio is increasing as more landlords join us,” says Darren.

“The software is also saving the business money.”

If you are looking to rent a property, give Glentworth Lettings a call to let them help. As Darren says: “Our staff are specifically trained in the designated areas of the business, care about their jobs and always try to go that extra mile to help landlords and tenants, who are treated with honesty and the utmost respect.”

For further information and to view the properties within its portfolio, visit www.glentworthlettings.co.uk or telephone 01934 319 319

KEVIN ROWLEY For Domestic Appliance Spares & Repairs

254 Milton Road Weston-Super-Mare North Somerset BS22 8EN Service Tel: 01934 419119 Spares Tel: 01934 641177 Fax: 01934 419119 Email: kevin@cookersrus.co.uk Web: www.cookersrus.co.uk

JJ Carpets & Flooring, a family run business which started back in 1999, caters for all your flooring needs. With a ‘choose at home’ service, quality and service are most definitely guaranteed.

JJ Carpets & Flooring are proud to support Glentworth Letting

Unit 3, Kiln Park, Searle Crescent, Weston Super Mare BS23 3XP 01934 310646

32128 1pg new_Transport Warehousing 07/08/2013 10:26 Page 1

Property

Development Property development covers a wide range of activities from the renovation of existing properties for rent or resale, to the purchase of land, either for improvement and resale, or for construction of residential or commercial buildings.

Property development involves many professions, including architects, designers, planners, engineers, surveyors, inspectors, contractors and leasing agents.

Typically, professional developers purchase land, determine the marketing of the property, develop the building programme and design, obtain the necessary planning approval and financing, build the structure, lease manage or ultimately sell it.

A growing sector of the market, fuelled by the many “home improvement” television programmes, relates to owner occupied individual dwellings; involving the improvement, refurbishment or extension of an existing property, or more ambitiously, a complete new-build.

Whatever the scale of the project, professional advice is essential, for guidance through complex planning regulations, currently under review, as the government seeks to get the housing market moving.

The drawing up and submission of plans is usually well within the range of most competent builders, but the services of an

architect, will pay dividends for the amateur developer, or for those looking to build something not just “out of the box”.

For more ambitious projects, a conversion, or a renovation a structural engineer may be required. Choosing a builder can be difficult for the amateur developer, your architect will advise on reputable companies, otherwise, the best route is often through the planning office in the local town hall, then to view completed projects and to ask for referrals.

Sustainable development is an important consideration, the initial costs can be high, but as energy costs rise, not only should the initial outlay be recouped but a pleasant feeling of virtue established.

There is a plethora of information about energy saving technology and sustainable building on the internet, but once having done your research, by far the simplest route is to choose a builder or architect with the appropriate “green” credentials.

Developers are changing their building methods, choosing vernacular materials, timber framing, increasing insulation levels and installing energy efficient heating systems such as Air Source heat pumps.

There is still simply not enough new property being built to keep pace with demand, but countryside campaigners, the Council for Rural England and the National Trust are very concerned by

some of the proposed relaxation of planning controls being debated by the Government.

The proposals would make it easier to develop into green belt land, and to install conservatories and loft extensions without going through weeks of planning bureaucracy.

For the Government, Nick Clegg said: "We're not building enough homes. We're not building enough affordable homes.

We've got to get Britain building.

In a further boost to the housing market, a further 16,500 first-time buyers are to receive help under an extension of the FirstBuy scheme, where would-be homeowners without a deposit are given an equity loan of up to 20% of the purchase price.

The extra funds are starting to make a difference as the Halifax building society reports some growth in the previously moribund housing market. There will also be £300m of additional funding to provide up to 15,000 affordable homes and bring 5,000 empty homes back into use.

Schemes such as Stoke City Council’s initiative where they will sell a derelict house for £1 and provide an improvement loan of £30,000, are being watched with interest by other local authorities.

The National Housing Federation, which represents England's housing associations, welcomed the package of measures as "a major step forward" with "the potential to transform the housing market". "It will provide homes for some of the millions of families on waiting lists; create jobs and give the UK economy a shot in the arm with a speed and effectiveness few industries can match," the group said.

The government’s support for the sector should be welcomed not just by the industry, but for its knock on benefits across the wider economy.

43

11153 2pgs_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 14:21 Page 1

Southern Counties Leisure For a FREE no obligation quote Call 01278 789605

Committed to keeping their standards one step ahead of their competitors, Southern Counties Leisure, endeavour in all departments to treat their customers as they would wish to be treated themselves.

Southern Counties Leisure are an NCC approved Holiday Home Distributor, with two sites, both open 7 days a week, at Burnham on Sea in Somerset and at Bridport in Devon.

They are the distributors for the two market leading brands of Caravan Holiday Homes from Willerby Holiday Homes and BK Bluebird, and also supply the award winning lodge ranges from Willerby.

Why not pay them a visit for a sneak preview of some 2014 models; they have a 2014 Willerby Atlanta 40x12.5 and a 2014 Willerby New Hampton 35x12 now available to view at their Burnham on Sea site.

They have gained a superb reputation due to the expertise of their sales and service departments, and customers can be sure of receiving friendly knowledgeable advice, and suggestions as to which holiday home and indeed park would be the most suitable for you.

Once your carefully chosen, lovely new holiday home arrives from the factory, Southern Counties Leisure’s fully qualified

44

engineers inspect every unit to ensure that everything is spot on, and rectify any minor issues prior to delivery.

Their repair teams also undertake any warranty items that may occur for the duration of the manufacturers warranty period. They are fully conversant with all aspects of caravan holiday home manufacture and are also Gas Safe registered.

Most importantly they are local to your park, which means if an urgent item needs attending to that wasn’t rectified during pre-delivery inspection. they are just a few hours away, rather than waiting for a manufacturers repair team to be scheduled.

Although Southern Counties Leisure only sell new holiday homes from market leading Willerby holiday homes and BK Bluebird, they also undertake repairs and upgrades to all makes of holiday homes. They are approved by Jardines and all leading insurers to carry out repairs on their behalf.

Southern Counties Leisure is also approved by Morco to repair and install their range of products.

The company stock a comprehensive range of parts to suit all makes and models, to ensure a swift repair, and the least disruption to a client’s holiday. They are always happy to supply you with a no obligation quotation for any work on your holiday home that you may require.

11153 2pgs_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 14:21 Page 2

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126A Berrow Road, Burnham-On-Sea, Somerset, TA8 2PH Corbin Way, Gore Cross Business Park, Bradpole, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3UX

Of course the ideal time to have work done is in the off season, so that your holiday home is ready and waiting for your holiday, so please contact Southern Counties Leisure about any concerns you may have or repairs that need to be undertaken and be sure of professional attention from a company that prides itself on offering the best possible service.

For more information or to arrange a viewing please ring 01278 789605 for Burnham, or 01305 422907 for Bridport, follow them on Facebook and Twitter, or visit the website www.southerncountiesleisure.co.uk

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45

11179 4pg_Carford Group 28/10/2013 22:15 Page 1

When you’re manufacturing what’s officially the best holiday lodge in the industry, it’s no wonder people are beating a path to your door.

Hearing its French-styled La Belle Maison named Ultimate Lodge of the Year at the 2013 World of Park & Leisure Homes Show, was the latest highlight in an already spectacularly successful year for Pathfinder Homes.

Since January the Newton Abbot manufacturer of residential and holiday homes and lodges has boosted its ever-growing order book along with a single deal worth more than £1.5million and formed several partnerships with Park Groups leading to further expansion to accommodate demand.

And the year’s not over yet. Looking to create a strong presence at two forthcoming showcases, the company is preparing for even more interest.

La Belle Maison was voted the ultimate lodge by visitors to the biggest show of its kind in Europe as well as the readers of Park Home & Holiday Caravan, Residential Parks Guide, Ultimate Lodge Guide and The Holiday Park Guide, which makes it the best holiday home/lodge you can get in the industry.

Pathfinder Homes is no stranger to being the best. Since it was established in 1958, the company has led a transformation from the popular simple caravan-style homes of the 1960s to the contemporary luxury lodges of today.

In true UK-leading fashion, it has revolutionised the industry, creating bespoke, beautiful, modern designs, with eco features and energy saving aspects in all homes and lodges which are built to UK Residential BS3632 standard.

46

Our business is to support your business Modplan is a trade-only fabricator. Because we only sell to the trade, we can focus on giving you the products and service you need to grow your business.

We manufactures and supply a comprehensive range of PVC-u window and door systems Conservatories Conservatory roofs Garden buildings Aluminium and specialist products

For more information about our services, please contact us on 01495 246844

www.modplan.co.uk Imperial Buildings, Bridge Street, West End, Abercarn, Gwent, NP11 4SB

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We are proud to have been a part of Pathfinder Homes’ success, and wish them all the very best for years to come A Division of Burles Group plc

11179 4pg_Carford Group 28/10/2013 22:24 Page 2

have a second home, holiday home or a first home to get onto the property market.

While the core business is providing homes for residential and holiday parks and private land owners, Pathfinder also builds office or toilet blocks, show homes and other specific buildings, while its refurbishment department and its ever-growing list of testimonials is solidifying the company name for quality.

We showcased the design flair and quality build of a Pathfinder home when the newest lodges – La Belle Maison and the Tuscany - the hugely popular Keepers Lodge and a brand new 2014 model were displayed at The Caravan Extravaganza (Lawns) Show in Cottingham, near Hull, in September.

La Belle Maison and the Keepers Lodge also featured at The Motorhome & Caravan Show at Birmingham’s NEC this year.

Now its two factories produce 17 homes a month and generate much employment and investment into the South Devon area with an influx of 28 new employees.

To see them now, to find out more or email an enquiry, visit

That’s good news all round as the market didn’t fully escape the economic downturn but, things have become livelier as people are looking into this industry more for an option to either

www.pathfinderhomes.co.uk Alternatively telephone 01626 833 799

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Using incredibly high quality materials, each is not only beautiful, but built to last.

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ORDER ONLINE www.crownsportslockers.co.uk

47

11179 4pg_Carford Group 28/10/2013 22:15 Page 3

Units 1&2 Oak Business Units Thorverton Road Marsh Barton Exeter EX2 8FS

Specialist suppliers of Ɵmber components and solid Ɵmber lodge cladding to the leisure homes industry

Tel: 01392 829966 Fax: 01392 829544 www.worktops-southwest.co.uk

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Laminate & Worktops Southwest Ltd would like to wish Pathfinder good luck in the future and we continue to support their ongoing success.

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Jelf would like to congratulate PathFinder Homes on winning the Ultimate Lodge of the year 2013 award Jelf is a leading independent consultancy providing expert advice on insurance, employee benefits, healthcare and financial planning for businesses and individuals.

For more information on the services we can offer you please call Bristol tel 01454 272727 or Newton Abbot tel 01626 336332 or visit www.jelfgroup.com.

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Bell Trailers All of our chassis are constructed for Pathfinder Park Homes using only the highest grade steel and components.

The number of axles required and amount of bracing needed is mathematically calculated for each chassis, and a anti-corrosion paint is added.

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11179 4pg_Carford Group 28/10/2013 22:15 Page 4

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11032 1PG:HorseWorld 28/08/2013 15:13 Page 1

A1 specialise in the replacement and repair of cob walls and lime putty rendering. Cob is a traditional material, in use for over 500 years, which is a typical feature of Cornwall and South Devon, particularly on period properties, but does require particular expertise.

It’s all in the name!

Truro based, A1 Complete Builders is a well established, family run company offering a complete portfolio of building and construction skills.

The company which was established in 2000 by Keith Pascoe is a member of the Federation of Master Builders and the European Builders Confederation.

Before

Architects and planners frequently specify cob, or lime plaster for new builds in conservation areas.

Also, when considering traditional materials, Keith is a great proponent of timber framing, a centuries old technique that has evolved over the last 80 years to conform with all the latest standards and regulations, and is being increasingly adopted due to

Before

After

After

its contribution to energy efficiency. He says, “Look at the environmental, technical superiority, and speed advantages!”

A timber framed house is a warm safe and comfortable place to live.

A1 offer a complete service from project management to building your own designed project. They aim to suit all your needs no matter how simple or complex they may be.

The company will see your project through from drawing board through to the final finishing touches including electrical work, decorating and fittings.

Join their many satisfied clients who are happy to recommend their work and customer service, and say with them “With A1 Complete Builders you are in safe hands.”

Visit their website www.completebuilders.org for more information and to download their brochure, or telephone: 07979 934678 or 01726 883388 for a friendly chat or if you prefer email: k.pascoe@btconnect.com.

Keith is a Cornishman through and through and loves this beautiful part of the country, he says: “I have raised my children here, I am totally committed to my family and to my business and will continue to build on this, not only to care for my family, but also so my customers can rely on, and put their trust in a builder of absolute quality.”

This commitment pervades every aspect of the company’s work, whether installing a new kitchen, renovating cob and lime mortar walls, an extension, rewiring or a complete new build.

Undertaking major work is always daunting but Keith and the team never forget that they are dealing with someone’s home, he says, “We care and our team cares!”

A1 undertake a huge variety of work, loft conversions are very popular at the moment and Keith is happy to help formulate a

50

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11151 1PG:HorseWorld 07/10/2013 16:14 Page 1

Their standard of work and understanding of the vernacular materials is such that they have built up a great deal of experience in working on listed buildings and for the National Trust.

As a reputable company whose tradesmen can be relied on they also carry out disabled grant works for West Somerset Council and Sedgemoor District Council, and home improvement works for Somerset West Care and Repair.

The commercial side of their work has included works in doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; surgeries, community halls, an adult learning centre, youth clubs, holiday parks and public houses.

B Walsh & Sons Ltd Builder & Contractor A company for all seasons and all types of construction work, B Walsh and Sons Ltd, based in Williton Somerset, is well established local, family run building company who are proud of their reputation for fair prices and quality work.

They primarily cover the county of Somerset but have also undertaken projects further afield in Devon, Cornwall and Wiltshire.

The company has experienced steady growth from its early days as a sole proprietor becoming a limited company in 1997. Their current turnover is approximately ÂŁ500,000, and they employ 5 construction personnel and 2 office personnel, backed up by various long serving well qualified subcontractors in electrics and, plumbing and heating.

If you are looking for a builder in the area with good all round experience, give them a call and discuss your project with one of the family, they are sure to be able to help.

B Walsh & Sons Ltd Telephone 01984 632146 visit the website www.bwalshbuilders.co.uk to view some recent projects or email info@bwalshbuilders.co.uk

The company have built a first rate local reputation based on their professionalism, reliability, quality of work and craftsmanship, and attribute their success to the fact that a large proportion of their work is achieved from personal recommendations and repeat business from satisfied clients. Testimonials from satisfied customers are available to be viewed if required.

They have over 100 years combined experience within the company, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a level of expertise that they apply to all sectors of the construction industry.

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Their skilled team of tradesman cover all aspect of building works from the groundworks through to the final finishing touches, and undertake all types of residential work from new build properties, extensions, alterations, refurbishments and repairs. The company are also very experienced in the construction of wet floor shower rooms.

Each project is supervised and managed by one of the directors from conception through to completion.

A very busy part of their portfolio is the supply and fit of replacement windows and doors in PVC-u, timber and aluminium, they also supply and erect conservatories, sun and garden rooms.

51

11123 DPS 2_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 15:21 Page 1

Heartlands - Cornwall

Stride Treglown – award winners par excellence.

An interview with David Hunter, chairman of Bristol-based architects, Stride Treglown “It’s not that we ever set out to win awards,” says David Hunter, “they just keep coming in. I would be worried if they were for only one project, or for one category, but they are not – they represent a wide spread of our work, based on different qualities, from the way we design our schemes to how they function.”

Sustainability is high on Stride Treglown’s agenda and they have won an outstanding achievement award as 2013 Carbon Champion in the West of England Carbon Challenge. This was awarded to the practice, which is ranked number ten in the UK by the Architects Journal, in recognition of its work in cutting carbon emissions. This applies to its own late Regency Grade II* listed Bristol office where it has cut carbon emissions by no less than 39% over the last three years, and the design of many low energy buildings for clients such as: One Glass Wharf for lawyers Burges Salmon in Bristol; South Gloucestershire Council’s new HQ in Badminton Road; R Block Phase 2 for the University of the West of England.

Strides (as they are affectionately known) won another major award in 2013, this time from the British Council for Offices, for its ingenious refurbishment and extension of Wiltshire’s County Hall in Trowbridge. “Our brief was to cut carbon emissions by 40%” explains Hunter. “In the process we created a fantastic new working environment for staff and visitors, which has been recognised by the BCO.” The 1930’s buildings were refurbished and insulated while a new atrium with a lightweight high-tech roof replaces a cold and draughty external courtyard. “We are very proud of this project. It shows what can be done in the public sector where budgets can be tight. Wiltshire Council encouraged us to be creative and innovative – you can see the result.”

In Cornwall, the Watergate Bay Hotel has been a huge success since Strides won a competition to provide an extension to house a new spa that would provide ‘active relaxation’ for the hotel’s sporty surfer clientele. “In response to this, our scheme includes a 25m horizon pool with panoramic views of the bay and the surf below. You feel you can almost touch the waves, even on a cold and windy day in the warmth of the new spa.”

David Hunter explains. “And the result? An award from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and selection as Britain’s number one seaside hotel by the Sunday Times.”

52

“The project that has won most awards for us in 2013 is one where the architecture is so subtle and natural, you might not even notice it. But as a project to regenerate a derelict mining area – it is highly significant – Heartlands, again in Cornwall.

The project called upon a wide range of the services we have in house at Strides, from architecture and landscape design to planning and historic building conservation.”

David Hunter - Chairman Heartlands is the result of a community led vision to transform an area of Pool, Cornwall’s most neglected urban area, into an inspirational cultural and recreational landscape. This project, supported with £22.8m from the Big Lottery Fund and EC Convergence Funding, involved a transformation of the landscape, including the creation of a major public park, which provides the gateway to an historic tin mining complex, part of the Cornwall and West Devon World Heritage Site.

The Heartlands project presented one of Stride Treglown’s most significant challenges. They assembled an expert, multi skilled team of architects, planners, conservation specialists and landscape architects who, from the outset worked collaboratively with their client, Cornwall Council, and the local community.

The brief was to transform a collection of former tin-mining buildings into a visitor attraction that would be a magnet for tourists to West Cornwall. The focus of the scheme is the Robinson’s shaft, which, in common with all of the buildings on site was restored sensitively and within tight cost constraints.

Strides used tin, copper, bronze, brass and zinc to reflect the site’s heritage while they were not fearful of designing contemporary architecture in the sensitive heritage environment.

11123 DPS 2_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 15:22 Page 2

The result of this collaborative work has been outstanding. The project achieved one of the highest sustainability ratings: BREEAM Excellent for all of the buildings, including those we restored. Visitor numbers have exceed all expectations and it is proving to be a catalyst for the wider regeneration of the area, which has been transformed from one of the least prosperous areas in England to a thriving leisure destination.

David Hunter takes us through some of the very flattering remarks that have been made by the judges:

RIBA Awards Panel: “Working closely with the numerous client and funding bodies, English Heritage, LA Conservation and the local community, the architects have painstakingly pieced together a site not only of well-restored and new buildings, but one with a strong narrative.”

RICS Awards Panel: “The outcome is that the regeneration of a 19 acre, long-time derelict, heavily contaminated former mining site within an urban area has become a valued community benefit. The project is in all respects a very worthy winner of the Project of the Year Award.”

RTPI Awards Panel:

Trowbridge County Hall - Wiltshire A wide range of national professional bodies have made awards to Stride Treglown for the project including The Royal Institute of British Architects; The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors; The Royal Town Planning Institute; the local Civic Trust; The Building Forum for Devon & Cornwall; The Cornish Buildings Group and the Green Apple Awards for Environmental Best Practice.

“As a member of the Judging Panel this year, I have been impressed by the excellent planning work of many kinds going on all over the region. All the entries have been of a high standard, but, on balance, Heartlands, which has so many different facets to it, stands out as the overall winner.”

David Hunter has the last word: “So, as you see, we are winning awards in the Southwest in large numbers. But there is something much more important to me as chairman of this practice: clients who are happy and our staff who feel the rewards for their hard work and dedication.

For me, perhaps overriding all of this appreciation, is an award that is central to Stride Treglown – our continuing status as Investors in People.”

Registered Office Address: Promenade House, The Promenade, Clifton Down Bristol BS8 3NE Call: 0117 974 3271 Visit: www.stridetreglown.com

Pool Terrace, Watergate Bay Hotel - Cornwall

53

11155 2pgs:HorseWorld 03/10/2013 15:43 Page 1

BARRON

S U RV E Y I N G BARRON Surveying Services has got a decade of success to celebrate - and wants to share the anniversary party with its loyal supporters.

2014 is the big year for the Plymouth company, but preparations are already under way for an event which, says Director and Company Secretary Sara Barron, will thank everyone who makes referrals to the company.

“All our contacts are very valuable to us,” she says. “We know that more than 80% of our business comes from word-ofmouth referrals, or repeat business.”

Always in touch with such valued supporters, including gifts at Christmas, it’s only natural that Barron Surveying Services wants them to be part of its 10year celebrations; a time which has seen it successfully adapt to survive one of the toughest recessions in living memory.

54

S E RV I C E S

They were soon joined by Debbie Hancock to assist with AutoCAD drawing and secretarial work while Steven Purvis arrived in 2010 as a Graduate Building Surveyor. In May he achieved his Assessment of Professional Competence and is now a fully-fledged Chartered Building Surveyor.

“This is a massive string to our bow,” says Sara. “Steven is now building on his experience and knowledge through ongoing project work with us.”

Barron Surveying may be small in number but it offers the full range of surveying services throughout Devon and Cornwall.

Before

During

After

• They include: Building inspection reports • Schedules of dilapidations • Drawings for extensions and refurbishments • Planning applications

Based in Abbotts Road, Peverell, it was established by Sara and husband James to give them more flexibility in caring for their young family.

• Building regulations applications

RICS member James already had 10 years’ experience as a Building Surveyor, while Sara’s background was in banking; specialising in mortgage sales and training small business advisers.

• Asbestos surveys

• Project management

• Fire risk assessments • Building insurance reinstatement valuations

11155 2pgs:HorseWorld 03/10/2013 15:43 Page 2

During

After

Index comments www.freeindex.co.uk and search for Barron Surveying Services.

For further information about the company and its services, visit their website

www.barronsurveying.co.uk Alternatively telephone the friendly team in the office on

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As the recession took hold, the company adapted from the surveys, which originally provided 60% of business, to project work and went on to win a number of prestigious schools and church schemes, including the theatre design and project management at Devonport High School for Boys.

Today, Steven handles much of the daily site inspection work, and James focuses on new clients and more complex survey work.

“Starting up, it was all about getting our name and reputation out there. Now we’ve been here for a few years, we know that people are very happy to recommend us,” says Sara.

“We help domestic, commercial, business and industrial clients. We are friendly and approachable and do things as we’d like other people to do them.

“What’s more, we’re going to keep on doing that, because we’re told we do it well!”

And if you want to see for yourself, check out the firm’s Trading Standards ‘Buy With Confidence’ client feedback at www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk/sitepages/bwchome.aspx.

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B&C ROOFING LTD

Delivering Quality Roofing for Commercial and Domestic customers throughout Devon and Cornwall We are proud to support Barron Surveying Services wishing you every success in the future from all at B & C Roofing Ltd

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55

11056 2pg_Feature Template 28/10/2013 16:38 Page 1

COOMBES W Coombes & Sons (Contractors) Ltd Established 1871

More than 140 years of building excellence goes into a W Coombes &Sons (Contractors) Ltd project - it's one of the reasons the company is the first choice when it comes to looking after some of the South West's most precious buildings.

Founded in 1871 by Walter J Coombes, Managing Director Tim Coombes, assisted by his sons, Adam and Thomas, is the fourth generation family member who leads approximately 50 staff, making the company one of the larger employers in the town of IIminster, where it is still based.

Alongside the experienced workforce, many of whom are long serving, the business also has its own network of tried and trusted sub-contractors, who may be called upon when required or for specialists trades.

Still a family firm, the business is renowned as something of a specialist with listed and historic buildings or when quality renovations and builds are required. But its experience and history means it undertakes a huge variety, range and size of contracts across Avon and Somerset, Devon and Dorset.

Many of those have turned out to be award-winners; the company is proud of its full trophy cabinet. They include: The Daily Mail Green Leaf Award, the National Stone Federation's Award for construction in natural stone, plus awards from the Royal Institute of British Architects, South Somerset District Council, Wiltshire County Council and the Somerset Building Preservation Trust Award 2012.

Similarly, it is held in high esteem by the many architects' practices in the area with whom it has worked in the past and, as a result, is included on their recommended/approved list of main contractors.

Whether it involves factory or homes new builds and extensions, restorations, maintenance, repairs to buildings ancient and modern or insurance works, W Coombes and Sons are able to undertake building projects from start to finish.

This comprehensive list of services includes all aspects of the construction process, from groundworks, landscaping, external walling, plastering and external wall finishes to bricklaying, stonework, decoration external and internal, roofing and leadwork.

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Based in Bridgwater, Somerset, we stock a wide range of door hardware, window hardware and ironmongery for sale to trade and retail customers.

Wishing W Coombes & Sons Ltd all the best for the future

We are delighted to be able to supply W.Coombes and Sons with all their Roofing Materials for their prestigious Projects.

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11056 2pg_Feature Template 28/10/2013 16:38 Page 2

For further information about the company and its building services, or to make an enquiry, please visit

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COOMBES Established 1871

The company is proud of its own well equipped joinery workshop from which it produces a quality range of hardwood and softwood bespoke joinery enabling it to manufacture the kind of bespoke joinery required for older and listed properties.

With an annual turnover of £2.5 million and undertaking contracts up to £1.5 million, W Coombes and Sons is well on its way to completing its second century in trading. That's not to say that recent times have been without challenge because of the current economic troubles, but you don't notch up nearly 150 years in business without surviving a recessionary dip or two.

"Our greatest business success has been retaining our staff, increasing our turnover and growing as a company during this recession," comments Tim Coombes. "This year we plan to continue to grow, specialising in listed, historic and quality renovations and builds."

W Coombes & Sons (Contractors) Ltd

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57

ST. ANN’S GATE ARCHITECTS

11142 1pg_Feature Template 21/10/2013 15:44 Page 1

The Church of St.John, Baptist, Cirencester: The South Porch: Conservation works

By the 1950s, the building again needed major work. The same non-interventionist approach was used, but regrettably, much harder cement-based materials were used. By the end of the twentieth century, these repairs, and the underlying masonry, were in a very poor state and major work was again required.

In 1997, the church appointed Michael Drury and Antony Feltham-King of St.Ann’s Gate Architects in Salisbury, to consider the repair of the south porch building.

After thirteen years of research and deliberation, with a few digressions, including the emergency repair of the church tower pinnacles, a carefully selected team of professionals, including specialist quantity surveyors, Bare Leaning & Bare of Bath (part of the Synergy Group), drew up a specification to repair and conserve the south porch building.

The south porch of the Parish Church in Cirencester is a remarkable late medieval building, marking the centre-point of the self-styled ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’. The church building itself is a structure with Cathedral-like complexity, but the south porch, constructed in around 1500, could be seen as a gothic multistorey office block.

The monastic foundation who built the church, wished to conduct business with the growing town, but did not want to sully the ecclesiastical building with commerce. Thus the porch is a semidetached structure, containing an elaborate fan-vaulted entrance into the church building, with a large chamber above which housed the church’s commercial premises.

The south porch is an essay in perpendicular gothic design, with its sequence of buttresses framing the projecting oriel bay windows, lighting the spaces within. There remains a wealth of carved sculpture on the southern facade, and the now-empty niches would have contained full-sized statues depicting figures relevant to the building and to the town.

When the adjacent buildings were demolished in the early nineteenth century the porch building shifted as a result of the removal of the sideways support necessitating major works in the 1830s, entailing the partial dismantling and re-building of the masonry.

A dedicated site team of stone masons and conservators spent around eighteen months working on the building, liaising closely with the architects and other specialists.

In the spring of 2012, the conserved building was unveiled to the public, emerging from behind the scaffolding and protective sheeting. The most striking aspect of the building is the colour and texture of the final surface treatment. This a lime-based ‘shelter-coat’ which was applied to the entire surface of the building, to protect the conserved elements and to unify their appearance with the other masonry features. This will gradually weather away, resulting in a more subtle patina as time goes by.

The completed works ensure that the church’s ‘front door’ can again provide a worthy entrance point to this fascinating building.

Excellence in Heritage Projects Cost Consultancy|Project Management|Building Surveying|Health & Safety

In 1909 another major programme of repair work was needed as increased pollution had accelerated the decay of the masonry.

The work was carried out, using methods promoted by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, and using local labour. The repairs were effected without using any new stone, by carefully constructing missing elements using clay tiles and mortar.

For more information please visit our website:

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|Proud Winner at the RICS South West Awards 2013 in the Building Conservation Category for The Town Hall, Cirencester Project|

58

11101 1PG_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 17:06 Page 1

JR BUILDING Quality Craftsmanship Quality Service Gloucestershire college students have gone right back to nature with the completion of a top-class new kitchen building - shaped like a snail.

A member of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) trademark scheme, Trada timber association and Investors in People accredited, it handles all schemes, from small home improvements to full project management, delivering a high quality finish in time and on budget.

David Austin & Associates has worked with the college for 23 years, during which time the campus has grown. Previous projects through this campus have received numerous awards and commendations, including a shortlisting in the 2010 Wood Awards for the Green Woodwork Shelter.

For further information please visit www.davidaustinassociates.co.uk telephone 01453 836393 or email info@davidaustinassociates.co.uk For further information about JR Building and to view past projects, visit www.jrbuilding.co.uk telephone 01452 741881 or email john@jrbuilding.co.uk

Architects David Austin & Associates designed the Woodland Kitchen for the Ruskin Mill Trust, which caters for young people with special needs, as part of its plan to expand the Trust’s land-based training facility at Gables Farm, Horsley, Stroud.

The construction, which ran from August 2012 to last May, was carried out by Arlingham’s JR Building Ltd, renowned for its work on ‘unusual’ builds. The architects were commissioned to design the Woodland Kitchen to increase capacity from the previous site and provide top-class facilities.

The 80-cover dining area is where students and staff working throughout the farm and woodland can have lunch. The building also serves as a classroom to teach meal preparation and a fold-away wall allows the space to be divided to provide a multi-purpose teaching room.

“The nautilus form arises from the Trust’s desire to embody the spirit of self-exploration, discovery and transformation through its built form, and delivers an intimate space for the volume achieved,” says a David Austin & Associates spokesman. “The timber frame uses native species for many of its elements, and nearly all construction was carried out by JR Building’s own highly skilled team.

“The roof uses earth excavated from the site, and is planted to match flora found on site using locally sourced seed.”

Managing director John Ramsden says, even with the company’s history of encompassing unusual builds and build methods, constructing a snail shell-shaped building in timber frame was a first.

“Many clients enjoy being able to create a beautiful, compliant building using natural products, often from their own land eg earth and trees, as structural features,” he adds.

“We pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship, outstanding service and a willingness to take on unusual projects and our highly skilled staff enjoys overcoming the challenges presented by modern and traditional building techniques,” he adds.

Established in 2000, it JR Building undertakes contracts up to £1M and employs 27 people with John and the management team working closely together to ensure quality and performance.

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59

11144 1PG:HorseWorld 21/10/2013 09:48 Page 1

Sometimes planning will allow the conversion of, or extension to a listed building, and again TGM’s specialist skills are called on to ensure that the new works will blend in seamlessly with the rest of the property.

construction LTD TGM Construction, a multi disciplinary main contractor, based just north of Bristol, will be celebrating 30 years of construction in the South West, Midlands and South Wales next year.

The company was founded in 1984 when 2 qualified tradesmen, Barry Brain and Tim Phillips, who had been friends from school, decided to start their own company.

They could see a gap in the market locally for a building company with experienced tradesmen that employed local apprentices and offered a complete construction service, and felt that they had the skills to fill that gap.

Their faith was certainly justified as they have become an established feature of the local construction industry, and over the years have developed an excellent reputation for high quality work and first rate customer service.

The company are able to offer the full range of services that you would expect from such a well established company from design to completion, on projects varying from new builds to the restoration and refurbishment of historic properties. They offer a full project management service, and undertake maintenance contracts for routine and response maintenance.

Their diverse client base includes; Architects and Quantity Surveyors practices, commercial companies from smaller organisations to large establishments, Local Authorities, Housing Associations, Domestic home owners and Retailers.

The company’s range of activities involve substantial works for the commercial sector, including the construction of commercial premises, retail refurbishment and general maintenance, car parks and landscaping.

Although there have been set backs and challenges over the years the close friendship between the two directors, and the trust between them has carried them through without damaging their long term vision.

Having survived the turbulent economic conditions of recent times they feel themselves to be in a strong position to make the most of the Opportunities that the improving economy and encouraging signs of growth within the housing market.

For more information please visit the website www.tgmconstruction.com To discuss your project please phone 01179 37 20 20 Fax 01179 37 20 65 or Email: contact@tgmconstruction.com Unit 10B, Greenway Farm, Bath Road, Wick South Gloucestershire, BS30 5RL

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Tel: 0117 9869714 www.imperialwindows-bristol.co.uk email imperialwindows_ltd@yahoo.co.uk Imperial Windows Ltd Unit 10 Ashmead Business Centre Ashmead Road, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1SX

Travis Perkins are proud to support TGM Construction Trust us for all your building material and tool hire needs

They are experienced developers from single bespoke dwellings and the conversion of existing premises into flats and apartments, up to new build development projects with a single contract value of up to £750,000.00.

Listed buildings require specialist attention and a comprehensive knowledge of period building techniques and materials when being restored or refurbished and TGM do have that expertise. Their expertise in this area leads them to being called upon by English Heritage for listed building re constructions and development.

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Wide range of trade quality products A specialist team with industry knowledge Account or Trade Cash Card facility Nationwide toolhire network Ex-yard and direct to site deliveries available For more information about our services, please visit

www.travisperkins.co.uk

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Then again different finishes are sometimes more suitable than others in heavy use areas such as schools, factories and offices and detailed discussions with the contractors or end user are key to achieving the effective results on which the company’s reputation is founded.

Plane Decorators are proud to be known for their excellent customer service and exceptional health and safety compliance.

They are a Worksafe contractor, and the management team have attained CSSSC (Health & Safety) status qualifications.

Bristol based, Plane Decorators have been providing a high quality decorating service throughout the South West for over 25 years and during that time have earned a solid reputation for professionalism, quality and service.

Their experience, expertise and efficient approach have ensured that they have become an established and a trusted name throughout the South West with a first class reputation for providing a professional service in painting and decorating.

Decorating is the final touch that makes all the difference, from domestic refurbishment to new builds. Work for major contractors, be it a show home or clean fresh basic colours across a development, through to commercial work in offices, shops, schools and colleges, Plane Decorators do it all.

The company offer a full range of decorating services, including:

To achieve that final professional finish calls for detailed preparation, and Plane Decorators’ work force are highly skilled and experienced in a wide range of decorating work and all hold CSCS Accreditation. (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) The home owner can rely on help and advice from Plane Decorators who are well versed in all the latest techniques and materials, they only use top quality products to ensure that their superb finish will last, giving pleasure for many years to come.

Work for the commercial sector is of course different in scale, but the same attention to detail and preparation are just as important.

Plane Decorators’ quality managed service for the main house builders in the construction industry, has led to them receiving numerous awards for their support in various projects

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Interior and Exterior Painting and Decorating Specialist paint effects and finishes Wall coverings Contact spraying New builds Refurbishments Home Owners Schools Hotels Shops Housing Associations Charitable Trusts

Whatever your project, large or small, give Plane Decorators a call for a friendly, efficient, cost effective service on 0117 956 9098, visit the web site www.planedecorators.co.uk or email enquiries@planedecorators.co.uk

The requirements of each sector can vary tremendously, there are obvious time-management issues for the educational sector, low odour paints are important in professional kitchens, the hospitality industry caries out refurbishments at off peak times, and period properties often use especially composed paints which require traditional techniques in order to provide a colour palette and finish in keeping with the property.

on 26 years in business from Jane Norton and the team at Norton Accountancy www.nortonaccountancy.co.uk 7 Soundwell Rd, Staple Hill, Bristol, BS16 4QG 0117 9109 858

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PAUL O’BRIEN ROOFING BUILDING LOFT CONVERSIONS

Paul O’Brien Roofing, Building and Solar Installations offer a wide range of building, roofing and solar panel installation services, from their South Bristol base, and is one of the best established roofing companies in the region.

By choosing Paul O'Brien Solar Installations to install a solar system on your home or commercial premises, you take the first step towards regaining control of your energy costs, and source of electric power.

Without making any changes in your life-style, you can enjoy the knowledge that you are drawing from a clean, renewable source of energy, sunlight; saving energy and money year after year, while helping the environment!

Building The building arm of the business carries out minor domestic works, such as small householder extensions, up to constructing new build houses and blocks of flats. The dedicated building team can work alongside the other inter company disciplines, providing a comprehensive range of services to the homeowner and/or developer.

Referrals and recommendations from satisfied customers, both private house owners and commercial businesses who return, year after year, make up a substantial portion of their work.

You can be sure of a friendly, informed reception to your call from our team.

www.paulobrienroofing.co.uk www.pobsolar.co.uk Starting out 25 years ago as a one man business, Paul O'Brien Roofing now employs a staff of 40 highly experienced, well trained roofers and office support staff, and has completed prestigious contracts in and around Greater Bristol, the West Country and South Wales.

Roofing

Telephone 0117 953 3234

PPAUL A UL O O’B O’BRIEN R I E N SOLAR SOLAR INSTALLATIONS INSTALLATIONS

Unit 6 Brookgate South Liberty Lane Bristol BS3 2UN

The company carries out all kinds of domestic and commercial roofing work from new build to restoration of small works and large contracts. It is also becoming well known for specializing in tiling, slating and lead work for heritage or listed buildings, and churches.

Recent contracts have included the old entrance to the city of Bristol, St John the Baptist Church and extensive flat roofing contracts at Rolls Royce, leading to increased work from those architects who need the skills of a company with experience of older buildings.

Solar The solar side of the business was started in 2010 and to Paul, seemed like a natural progression, utilising the skills of his highly trained workforce, and proving to be a positive move towards further expanding his already successful operation.

2010 caught the solar boom, and the company has become the South West’s largest high volume solar panel installer.

Approximately 4,000 systems have been installed on domestic and commercial properties to date.

In order to meet customer demand Paul has opened offices in Newport and in Northern Ireland and plans to increase the current workforce of 50 staff to 70 over the next 12 months with large contracts ready to be started.

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s !CCOUNTANCY "USINESS !DVICE s 4AX 0LANNING s &INANCIAL 3ERVICES s #ORPORATE &INANCE s 3PECIALIST 3ERVICES

Haines Watts would like to take this opportunity of congratulating Paul O’Brien Roofing on over 20 years in business and wish them every success for the future.

As Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisers we are able to provide assistance in all areas of direct and indirect taxation together with advice on business matters.

We know about business – we’re business people first, accountants second.

We offer a fixed fee service, inclusive of annual ad hoc advice, with unlimited access to our experienced team.

For a free initial consultation please contact:-

Haines Watts Hyland Mews, 21 High Street, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2YF Tel: 0117 9742569

www.hwca.com

Fax: 0117 9706152

Email bristol@hwca.com

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Before you start it is well worth consulting your local planning office, especially if your changes will overlook a neighbouring property.

FLAT ROOFING

County Flat Roofing employs a structural engineer to ensure that your flat roof and underlying structure is capable of supporting the extra load. A timber sub structure for example may be less able to safely support the load than a block and beam or concrete slab sub structure.

Congratulations to four members of Weston-super-Mare based County Flat Roofing (UK) Ltd, for passing the Institute of Roofing (IoR) rigorous examination and achieving Associate & Member Status.

The company then make sure your roof complies with Document L regulations (Conservation of Heat and Power) and any insulation is then upgraded to meet these regulations then waterproof using a new polymeric PVC Single Ply Membrane such as Sarnafil, Cefil or AlwitraEvalon as the base for your flat roof conversion.

This latest achievement adds to the companies other accreditations including the NFRC Government approved Competent Roofer scheme that means all of their roofs comply with the latest Document L Regulations concerning the conservation of Heat and Power.

Kevin Hodge, Managing Director, County Flat Roofing, views this latest achievement as an important additional accreditation to build confidence with homeowners: “It’s up to us to demonstrate that we have roofing knowledge as well as product knowledge. We have to walk the roofing walk, as well as talk the roofing talk!”

These membranes have a proven track record in providing a high quality, leak proof base for commercial and domestic roof gardens, options for the finished surface of a flat roof conversion include lightweight patio slabs in many finishes or either timber (softwood or hardwood) or composite decking are becoming very popular.

Handrails can also be fitted or upgraded using stainless steel and glass standard or frameless, timber, powder coated metal and even galvanised options; all of these are manufactured and fitted to comply with building control regulations.

Another popular option is to install a low maintenance green or sedum roof on top, this has the added benefit of looking great and is a sure fire way to attract wildlife back into your garden, for this reason green roofs are becoming very popular in city locations such as Bristol.

Before

After On the importance of proper insulation, he says: “I'm sure you don't need me to tell you that owning a flat roof comes with its own set of challenges, one of the biggest being that many flat roofs are seriously lacking in any significant insulation.”

Call FREE on 0800 09 88 271 for a no-obligation free Balcony survey, or roofing consultation and quotation or visit their website www.countyflatroofing.co.uk

Congratulations to County Flat Roofing

County Flat Roofing’s flat roofs however, are constructed using a variant of the "Warm Roof System", where your existing roof is encapsulated within 5 inches of (120 mm) of solid polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation boards, as standard, along with the required vapour control layer.

Your new layer of insulation is then waterproofed using the latest fusion welded single ply membranes, as protection against anything the UK weather can throw at it.

Converting your Flat Roof into Useable Outdoor Space.

Perhaps you already have a balcony roof that you’d like to upgrade and make into a balcony patio or roof garden that you can enjoy during the warmer months.

Whatever your choice County Flat Roofing can help you by converting your existing flat roof into the outdoor space you always wanted.

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Relationships built between Landscape Services (South West) Ltd. and their customers have been instrumental in their 21 year success story, culminating in being awarded their largest contract to date.

These relationships between company and customers that have been forged over years of repeated business, and the relationships between company and workers have led to an enviable retention rate - more than half of the staff have never worked anywhere else.

A full range of maintenance/landscaping services is offered such as grass cutting, litter clearance, tree surgery and supply and maintenance of seasonal floral displays.

Landscape Service has a close association with their sister company, Mike Taylor Machinery Ltd. who provide servicing for all their machinery. They also provide sales and servicing of horticultural machinery to the general public.

“Ensuring that we retain the personal touch is critical” says Will Stops, managing director of the family-run Nailsea business.

As we have grown we have been very careful to ensure continuity in staff who we know are the most important element of our business. We try to treat them fairly and provide all with modern equipment in order that they can do their jobs well.”

“We are also proud of the fact that our clients and managers have very good relationships. Very often they have worked together for many years and customers know that not only are we friendly but we address any concerns promptly.”

Covering the whole south west and south Wales, Landscape Services (SW) provides grounds maintenance and soft landscaping to a wide range of public and private sector clients including Avon and Somerset Police, Balfour Beatty, Nailsea Town Council, First Group, the NHS and Bristol Grammar School.

Originally operating out of a double garage lock-up, some 30 staff are now employed across two depots, the Nailsea HQ and Warmley, east Bristol.

The gang outside the Unit. Back row left to right, Martin Lomax, Pete Weston, Will Stops, Mike Taylor. Front row, Ben Neades and Andy Smith.

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Nailsea Motor Services Serrvices vices provide friendly, helpful and professional servicing and repairs for your cars, vans and campervans.

We are proud to announce that we have been accepted as a Unipart Car Care We Centre and our Committment to The Motor Industry Code of Practice www.motorcodes.uk www.motorcodes.uk Tyres & Exhausts Servicing - Repairs - Tyres Testing, Class 4,5 & 7 MOT Testing,

TTel: el: 01275 856927 Unit 19, Southfield Road T Trading rading Estate, Nailsea, Nail Bristol. BS48 1JE

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With over 30 years experience in the landscape supply industry we can effortlessly supply a wide range of turf, paving, decking, fencing, sleepers and topsoil to anywhere in the uk.

We are proud to support Landscape Services SW and wish them every success for the future.

CWT Landscape Supplies, Chittening Industrial Estate, Worthy Road, Avonmouth Bristol BS11 OYB Tel. 0117 982 2255 Web: www.cwtls.co.uk

10997 2pg_Feature Template 28/10/2013 18:50 Page 2

As the warmer weather gets well and truly into its stride there’s an even sunnier outlook ahead for the business with the recent securing of a five-year contract to provide grounds maintenance, landscaping and tree surgery services to Alliance Homes, the organisation which manages what was once North Somerset Council’s social housing stock.

“This is the largest contract we have won and it is centred in and around our home territory,” says Will.

“Our success in winning this contract and our ability to deliver the level of works required represents the progress we have made since our formation back in 1992.”

Left to right, Will Stops, Mike Taylor, Liam Fox, workshop foreman Andy Smith, apprentice Ben Neades.

Every project can be tailored to suit each individual site requirements and no matter what’s involved, all will be carried out to the highest standard as Landscape Services, a member of BALI (British Association of Landscape Industries) has been accredited with and uses the ISO 9001 Quality Management and ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems.

ConsultQA offer quality, environmental and health & safety management systems and services your organisation may require.

Very proud to be supporting Landscape Services SW Phone Chris on 07887 837 309, email info@consultqa.co.uk or visit the website www.consultqa.co.uk

For further information about Landscape Services (SW) Ltd. details of its free quotations, full range of services and environmental policy, visit

www.landscapeservicessw.co.uk Alternatively telephone 01275 859525 or email info@landscapeservicessw.co.uk

Effective Safety are a health and safety consultancy dedicated to supporting small to medium size businesses with a realistic, cost effective service.

Proud to be supporting Landscape Services SW

Visit our webiste www.effective-safety.co.uk or alternatively phone Nik on 07802 645 522

R.F.PONSFORD INSURANCE A HAND-HELD BESPOKE SERVICE

www.ponsfordinsurance.co.uk

R.F. Ponsford Insurance Services provide: Commercial & Industrial s Risk Management s Disaster Contingency Claims Handling s Specialist Insurance Sectors We are proud to support Landscape Services SW and would like to wish them every success for the future.

Ponsford Insurance Services 92 Nore Road, Portishead, Bristol BS20 8DX T: 01275 840400 s E: info@ponsfordinsurance.co.uk

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Alltype

Fencing

coated palisade fencing, often with spiked tops, sturdy chain link fencing, metal railings offering a choice of hooped tops, and industrial gates - sliding, hinged or electric.

Alltype are also able to supply and install temporary fencing, screens or barriers in the form of hoardings, to protect plant and equipment on industrial and commercial building sites.

If all this were not enough they supply certified installers with crash barriers constructed to the Highways specification.

The clue is in the name, leaders in fencing solutions in the central south and beyond, Alltype fencing was established over thirty years ago. Based near Salisbury, they supply and install every type of fencing for the industrial, commercial and private sectors.

As they say, “You name it, we can provide it.”

In the private sector Alltype is a trusted local name, providing advice and cost effective solutions to homeowners throughout the area. Whether it is a complete make-over, keeping in the dog, or replacing a storm damaged panel just give them a call.

They can supply and install an excellent range of pressure treated timber closeboard fencing, overlap panel fencing, trellises and pressure treated palisades to suit the size and style of your garden. Alltype also stock chain link fencing, plastic coated or galvanized, and concrete or metal posts.

Alltype have a good choice of gates in either timber or metal to your own design, or to match your fencing.

Fencing nowadays is not just about function; increasingly it forms part of the design of your garden and Alltype are able to achieve that rare thing, making fencing interesting; even interesting and fun for children. Alltype recently supplied some brightly coloured fencing to a local primary school completing the whole job, and painting it themselves in bright primary colours.

Their work for schools colleges and sports clubs also includes fencing for tennis courts, other ball courts and multi-purpose pitches.

In other words if you need a fence to keep something in, or something out and to fulfil all the requirements of form and function give Alltype Fencing a call. Their stated mission is to supply, “Quality workmanship, on time and at the right price.”

Please telephone or e-mail Richard Taylor with any queries or advice you may need, as below.

Quotations are FREE.

Telephone 01722 780563 Fax 01722 780138 Email: sales@alltypefencing.net Howgare Road, Broad Chalke, Salisbury, Wilts, SP5 5DR

(Salisbury) Ltd Est. 1942 Builders & DIY Merchants (01722) 333781/337230 www.boswellbros.co.uk Proud to support All Type Fencing

THE SOUTH’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT SUPPLIER OF QUALITY FENCING - DECKING - GATES SHEDS - GARDEN BUILDINGS

Security is another important aspect of fencing and it is here that Alltype’s work for the private and commercial sectors overlaps. They are frequently called upon to supply super security mesh fencing, weldmesh fencing, galvanized or powder

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Find us on facebook

FenceStoresLtd

Orders taken online at:

www.fencingcentre.co.uk

PARLEY - HURN - WIMBORNE - CADNAM - SIDMOUTH - YEOVIL

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Select

rooms of distinction

A new kitchen, a stylish bedroom with plenty of storage space, or a new bathroom is a dream for many of us.

Magazines and television programmes are full of glamorous images, but where to start? The media is also full of worrying tales of poor workmanship and companies that don’t fulfil their promises.

A local, well established, family run business, whose designers are happy to take the time to discuss your requirements in detail, visit your home to take measurements, and during a further showroom visit, provide a free no obligation quotation.

Such a company who also use their own tradespeople, guarantee their work, and can furnish you with a list of satisfied customers in your area, would be ideal.

Step forward Harveys Select Rooms of Distinction, previously known as Harveys Select Kitchens, the name change reflects the incorporation of bedrooms and bathrooms into their offering. The company was established in 1987 by Harvey Webb, and is run today by Alison May, his daughter.

Harveys moved to their present larger premises 6 years ago to allow more display and office space, has been more than worthwhile, with the company showing steady year on year growth ever since.

To accommodate this growth the company are altering the premises yet again, adapted their basement area into bright functional office space, and converting the original office area into further display space for bathrooms and office furniture.

The future for Harveys Select Rooms of Distinction is looking not just bright, but carefully planned and designed.

Pop by our showroom 145 Staple Hill Road | Bristol | BS16 5AG

Call: 01179 561381 Visit: www.harveysselect.co.uk

In the early days Alison assisted with the day to day running of the business, including order processing and accountancy. She has a background as a chef and includes inspirational, practical design flair among her talents.

Alison took over in 2001and the company has progressed rapidly since. Harvey, at 79, is now fully retired, but still maintains a keen interest in the business’s progress.

The company are proud of their family run ethos, which generates a relaxed friendly approach, no high pressure sales guaranteed.

The company have both male and female designers, and welcome visitors to their showroom, where the displays are regularly updated.

Some recent changes include the addition of some contemporary high gloss units with glass fronted cabinets and a beautiful range of painted solid wood units.

Harveys offer a range of both modern and contemporary units, fittings and accessories to bring you the kitchen, “the heart of your home,” of your dreams. Drop in and have a chat to one of the friendly team, their experienced designers will come up with suggestions and ideas that will delight you.

We specialise in ceramic, porcelain & Victorian wall and floor tiles, mosaics, glass tiles, terracotta tiles, and hand made and natural stone tiles. We also stock tools, grout, adhesives, tile trim, sealers and cleaners.

Bedrooms are sometimes thought of as the poor relation, but a well designed bedroom can provide a personal haven, while the modern storage options Harvey’s designers can offer will transform your life.

Proud to support Harvey’s Select Kitchens

A stylish modern bathroom or wet room is on most people’s wish list these days, pop in to Harveys, they will be happy to discuss the possibilities.

Call us for more information on 01454 310122 or visit our website www.ceramictiletrading.co.uk

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Professional FLOOR SANDING C O A professional service from professional people dedicated to quality - that’s the promise from Professional Floor Sanding Ltd. And some fine floors too.

Some domestic clients often see floor sanding as a DIY job that anybody can try. It’s a view the company understands, which is why it also operates a successful professional sander hire service alongside their core domestic and commercial contract services.

Many, however, still prefer to have the experts bring a tired and neglected wooden floor back to a natural and bespoke finish and much of the company’s work is generated by referrals and repeat business.

“At least you’ll have a half decent chance of a good result, but there’s no substitute for knowledge and experience,” insists Managing Director Will Brazier.

That’s why customers trust the renovation of their wooden floors to Will and his team, knowing that the Guild of Master Craftsmen membership-buoyed quality and care brought to every job will result in a stunning finish.

“When people choose us, they know that they get to benefit from our skill and know how,“ Will points out. “At the end of the day there is little that can beat commitment to old fashioned work ethic of hard graft and pleasure in the end result.

“We have a very healthy work schedule and so intend to increase our workforce and continue with our dedication to providing competitively priced quality and customer service.

“If you need any help refurbishing or replacing your wooden floors, you have found the right place.”

Now the premier dust-free floor sanding company in the South West, it was founded 12 years ago partly, he says, to counter horror stories of incompetent tradesmen.

“Choosing the right company to renovate your wooden floor is the single most important decision you will face for the success of your project,” he says.

“Our highly trained craftsmen, armed with specialised dust-free technology, use a unique sanding process that results in a rarely surpassed quality finish.”

For further information about the company and its services as well as floor sanding advice, go to www.professionalfloorsanding.com or www.professionalwoodflooring.co.uk The showroom’s opening hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

We are proud to work in partnership with Professional Floor Sanding

www.treatex.co.uk

With an enviable reputation for customer satisfaction, Professional Floor Sanding is a veritable powerhouse and onestop shop for all things sanding, as well as fitting, refurbishing, repairs, sealing and staining.

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A visit to its showroom on the Wallis Estate, in St Werburghs, Bristol, is an opportunity to view and buy quality solid and engineered wood flooring as well as stains, sealants and oils for ongoing care.

Dynamic experienced suppliers of Hardwood Engineered and Solid Wood Floors

It’s also where any brave DIYers can arrange to hire equipment or tap into the experts’ knowledge bank.

Proud to be supporting Professional Floor Sanding

“Advice and information is always free and our customers trust those who have had years of experience and enjoy a blemish free finish,” says Will.

Contact James on 01934 833198 or on his mobile, 07773 009702

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State of the art lighting is becoming a major feature of modern design.

Lighting up our lives for over 25 years, independent company, Lighting Services, Bristol, is one of the South West’s major suppliers of new lighting installations and maintenance of existing lighting including lamps, controls and fittings.

Lighting Services also have a wide range of emergency lighting, and fire detection products and systems, from stylish emergency lighting, LED downlighters and exit signs, through to analogue addressable and conventional fire detection systems.

Millennium Centre Cardiff Energy, and therefore cost saving, has been a major factor at the Cardiff Millennium Centre, where Lighting Services have carried out a simple re-lamping exercise, replacing halogen lights with LED bulbs.

The exercise involved replacing literally hundreds of 50 watt bulbs with 7 watt LEDs generating savings in the region of £300,000, more than ten times the cost of replacement. The Millennium Centre should achieve a payback on their investment within 6 months.*

Millennium Centre Cardiff

Independence confers the freedom for them to select the most appropriate lighting solution for their customers’ needs from the world’s leading manufacturers.

Millennium Centre Cardiff

Operating at the forefront of lighting technology has helped generate efficiency savings for their customers.

As a result the company has become recognised as one of the market leaders in economical and sustainable lighting solutions, particularly through their work with some major clients.

Reform Club

Reform Club Highlighting a different area of their expertise, Lighting Services were asked to redesign the lighting at the Reform Club, a very prestigious gentleman’s club in the centre of London, dating from 1836 and Grade 1 listed.

Their Lighting Design Department offers innovative and illuminating solutions for a wide range of locations from prestigious heritage properties to walk ways, striking modern installations, and emergency lighting that complies with the latest regulations.

Environmental and energy saving technology is becoming increasingly important as the price of energy and our ecological awareness becomes more acute. Lighting Services specialise in energy saving solutions and the reduction of CO2 emissions.

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Reform Club

Although historically sensitive, the main brief was to be sympathetic to the historical character of the building, displaying its many exceptional architectural features while concealing the actual light sources from sight.

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The brief also called for a centrally controlled LED system which would vary the light levels according to the time of day, highlight different areas as required, and allow for complete zonal control for different occasions and times of year.

throughout the property including grid lights, suspended track and adaptions to bespoke and historic luminaires. This allowed River Cottage to extend their philosophy of sustainability to the building itself.

Please visit the website,

www.lightingservices.com for more information, further case studies or to access their on-line shop. *savings based upon assumptions of 8p per KwH, and £5 maintenance costs per light bulb change.

River Cottage

River Cottage Lighting Services provided lighting to Bristol's new River Cottage Canteen, a stunningly converted Grade 2 listed building on Whiteladies Road.

The Reform Club

Lighting Services, working with Simple Simon Design, supplied LED solutions

At last an led replacement module from a name that you can trust. Zalex is designed to simply fit into a 2D Bulkhead and start saving money!

Zalex

Running at only 15 watts and having a FIVE year warranty means that energy and replacement savings will be huge and backed by the confidence provided by Tridonic, a world class manufacturer.

To compliment the standard mains product an emergency version is also available along with a dimmable option with 10% “corridor function“ technology.

5 year system warranty 1800 lumen output Q Only 15 watts Q 3 hour emergency option Q Dimmable option Q Excellent colour rendering Q Up to 50,000 hour service life Q Colour temperature 3000 or 4000K Q Q

www.smartsystemsuk.com info@smartsystemsuk.com Tel: 02476 364 400 • Fax: 02476 364 477

Be a master of light

COLLINGWOOD LIGHTING would like to take this opportunity to congratulate

LIGHTING SERVICES

over twenty five successful very successful years in business. and its entire entire staff staff for for twenty four very years in business. and its fivesuccessful very years in business.

collingwoodlighting.com

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Riverside Butchers Taunton’s Riverside Butchers are showing the nation of food-lovers a thing or two about quality British meat

At the heart of it all are the products - and it hasn’t taken them long to become award-winners.

The company was named Champion of the South West for its black pudding and speciality sausages while its own dry cured bacon, faggots, pies and sausages have all picked up Gold Awards.

“We know that quality and taste are important to customers and we have established relationships with local farmers so we can be sure that we can deliver the best,” says Ian. “Whether it is Somerset farmed beef, free-to-roam chickens, or pork and lamb sourced from within the South West, you can be sure that our meats are among the best you can buy.”

The father and son business has teamed up with another Somerset company that makes regular deliveries to shoppers in France - where its own locally sourced products are going down rather well.

It’s the English young people that are not so convinced, but Ian and Steven Winn are - well - winning them over.

“Some are a little wary of entering a butcher’s,” acknowledges Ian. “So we pride ourselves on our friendly service with a smile, and give as much advice as we can about our products including, if required, the best ways to cook meat.

“It’s a real pleasure to show customers that when it boils down to it, for the quality and price paid in the shop it is no dearer than going to a supermarket.”

The same goes for the sought-after Deli section, with its locally sourced cheese, free-range eggs and wide range of compliments, all carefully selected for quality and taste, with many made in the traditional methods locally in Sedgemoor. Not to mention those prize pies . . . .

“Our excellent reputation is built on supplying high quality local products; this keeps our customers returning time and time again,” declares Ian proudly.

Definitely ‘meat to please you’ and they’re ‘pleased to meat you’ at the Riverside Place shop, just off St James Street, Taunton.

Visit www.riversidebutchers.com, to discover more about the products available and the deliveries to France.

Place an order on 01823 289097 or email sales@riversidebutchers.co.uk

Running Riverside Butchers is a real labour of love for Ian and Steven who took it on in 2008 when the previous owner, who established the business in 1986, retired.

As a schoolboy, Steve had a Saturday job there and went on to become a full-time member of staff. Ian would help out at busy times while continuing his job as a slaughterman.

The aim was always to supply high quality, locally sourced products at a fair price and that has certainly fulfilled a demand.

Sales have increased year on year and Riverside Butchers now supplies several restaurants and cafes while the purchase of a van saw the launch of a local home delivery service while the online ordering enables products to travel even further.

David & Linda Prescott Welcome you to

The Travellers Rest

Merridge. Bridgwater. Somerset. TA5 1BA 01278 671 367 We are proud to support Riverside Butchers and we would like to wish them all the best for the future.

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The Queens Arms at Pitminster Ourr Menu is seasonal and as such will be updated regularly. gularly. gul arly. In addition we offer a variety of real ales and ndd llocal cal ciders. Food is served between 12 – 3 pm andd 6 – 9 pm an and m daily. daily. da y.

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01823 421529 Butch and wish them Butchers

Wee are a e pproudd to support sup rtt Riverside R the best the es oof luck luck c in th thee ffu future. uttu

Thee Qu The Queen Queens eenss A Arm Arms, rrm ms, m s, PPitminster, Taunton, Somerset, TA3 7AZ

32179 1pg_Transport Warehousing 09/10/2013 12:10 Page 1

Travel Industry Reaping Rewards of

Autumn Breaks Memories of the summer sunshine are fading, the temperatures are cooling, the longer dark nights are not so far away and the Christmas festivities have yet to sparkle.

Autumn in the UK officially begins on September 21 and winter on December 21, and it’s the perfect time to make a getaway, falling as it does, between the traditionally busy summer and festive seasons.

For a start, it’s easier on the purse strings, with many accommodation providers and travel operators offering lower prices at this traditionally quieter time of year.

Everything also tends to feel a little bit more relaxed as, with schools back in term time, there are fewer people travelling.

So, it couldn’t be a better time to take an autumn break. If you’re not yet ready to give up the sunscreen and flip flops, now’s your chance to get a final blast of sunshine, and not too far from home either.

And if you want to really roast, ever-warm Egypt has plenty of super holiday destinations.

Autumn is also the perfect time to visit other European places that are hotspots in other ways - such as Paris, Vienna, Berlin, Barcelona and Rome.

Take a city break at this time and it’s when the cooling temperatures work to your advantage, with sightseeing becoming a lot more bearable; particularly as the crowds are often thinner as well, meaning less time spent queuing.

What’s more, this is when the calendars of these cities are filled with festivals and celebrations, giving you the perfect reason to slip away for a long weekend, either by hopping on a ferry, boarding the Eurostar or taking a flight.

For millions, a holiday at this time of year is not all about chasing the last of the summer sunshine. The UK itself is a place of beauty, thanks to the trees’ spectacular displays of colour.

Short haul flights - with Birmingham and Bristol Airports right on the doorstep - put some of Europe’s top tourist destinations within hours’ reach.

In fact, autumn is seen by millions of foreign visitors as the most spectacular season in which to visit these shores.

Sunseekers determined to grab that last bit of extra warmth can jet off for Tenerife, for example, where September temperatures regularly hit the late 20s, or Crete, which bathes in one of the Mediterranean’s longest summer seasons.

The country’s forests and woods burst into a range of golden shades and, forget the old ‘seasons of mists and mellow fruitfulness’ line, there’s often some surprisingly good weather in which to get out and enjoy nature’s spectacular show.

Certainly the experience of crunching through piles of golden leaves and collecting conkers (the presence of children optional!) is one that’s hard to beat.

And, oh, the joy of returning to a comfy cosy country pub or hotel with a crackling log fire by which you can relax and plan your following day’s activity.

Being in the heart of England, Birmingham is perfectly placed to access some of the country’s most beautiful rural spots such as the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the Cotswolds while Bristol is practically only a hop, skip and a jump away from Devon, Cornwall and south Wales.

You can take over a country house or cottage as a group of friends and family, you can relax in hotels, pubs or B&Bs or you can be pampered within an inch of your life at a spa break - whatever you choose, all make the perfect choice for an autumn break.

Of course, away from the beautiful countryside, the UK also has its own city break hotspots - you don’t need to go abroad for an action-packed trip.

London ranks up there with Paris, Berlin, Barcelona and the rest. For thousands, the opportunity to catch a West End show is reason enough for a short getaway and some of those older theatres are, at this time of year, much cooler places in which to enjoy the performances.

Bath, with its Roman Spa and Jane Austen connections is an extremely popular destination as is York with its rich Viking heritage, and Edinburgh.

One final thought, while the temperatures may not automatically have you reaching for the bucket and spade, don’t forget the beach. Some of the country’s seaside resorts such as Brighton and Blackpool have plenty going on which will keep you entertained whatever the weather.

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They are continuing to seek out the best of local produce to expand the range of products on offer even further.

Doniford farm is not just another farm shop, but fun for all the family, they have lots of farm, and exotic animals there, including their own Meerkat Manor and birds of prey. There are interesting farm buildings to explore as well, making it a family experience when the children enjoy coming shopping too!

From farm gate to thriving farm shop, café and restaurant.

Farmers, Steve and Kay Clothier, had been selling home grown and home made produce such as vegetables, preserves, fudge cakes, eggs etc. at the farm gate for some time. The fact that they actually sold out most days proved that there was a demand locally for fresh home grown produce.

They hold regular craft fairs throughout the year and with Christmas just around the corner, Doniford’s range of beautiful, sometimes quirky and individual products hand made by local crafts people make wonderful gifts. Customers love the fact that they can get hand made, quality items as gifts, or for themselves that are made by local people, so therefore often unique.

Kay and Steve are looking forward to Christmas; their plans include an amazing Christmas grotto from the middle of November, and a special Christmas menu in the Café which is available on their web site. www.donifordfarm.co.uk.

Having tested the waters, as it were, they opened the Farm Shop and Café in April 2012 and have gone from strength to strength.

They are proud to have put Doniford on the map by growing a successful business, despite the recession, in a small hamlet in West Somerset that most people hadn’t heard of before.

The shop sells a wonderful selection of locally sourced produce, including everything that they sell in the cafe. They make as much as possible in their own kitchens, from scratch, using local ingredients.

The Café has indoor and outdoor seating with wonderful views across the Bristol Channel.

Some of the meat is actually raised on the farm itself while the rest is raised locally and comes from a local butcher. Kay tells us that, “One of the cheeses we sell in the shop is produced from the Jersey herd seen on the hills across the road from our farm.” Food doesn’t come more local than this!

The couple are constantly looking for ways to progress the business. They have put in a butchery and deli counter and have just increased their range of local ciders and beers.

Somerset has some wonderful cider makers and micro breweries and they have most of them in stock!

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The Café/Restaurant is delighted to cater for parties, just ring one of the friendly team who will be happy to help on 01984 634825.

available in v

ORIGIANL . PEAR . CRANBERRY . RASPBERRY & ORANGE . ELDERFLOWER DERFLOWERR

.

www.norcottscider.co.uk chris@norcottscider.co.uk

Suppliers of dairy products and fine foods!

Longman Cheese Sales are proud to supply Doniford Farm Shop with their dairy products!

North Leaze Farm, North Cadbury, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7BD Tel:01963 441146/E-mail: sales@longmancheese.co.uk www.longmancheese.demon.co.uk

11397 Xmas 2013_Events & Hospitality 1pg 28/10/2013 19:38 Page 1

A South West

Christmas

No-one does Christmas like the South West with its mix of cities, towns, coastal resorts and glorious countryside sheltering traditional pubs and country house hotels, whatever your style, the South West has it.

With a new mood of optimism and the worst of the recession years seemingly behind us, companies, couples and families are all making their preparations for one of the best and busiest Christmases for a while. Whether the plan is to party the night away at one of Bristol’s vibrant bars or nightclubs, meet up at one of the many hotels across the region, have a special meal out or just enjoy a visit to a farm shop or independent food outlet to buy some extra special treats, everyone is making plans for their ideal Christmas.

While restaurants are geared up to cater for groups and offer special deals for corporate bookings, their regular customers and those wishing to enjoy a romantic evening are not forgotten, amid the sparkle.

Country house hotels and Inns of all sizes, offer families and couples a traditional Christmas break with log fires and country walks, many local pubs and restaurants provide mulled wine, mince pies and a traditional Christmas spread. Popular venues need to be booked early if Mum is to be spared not just the cooking but the washing up!

However, for some, there is no place like home at Christmas, families gather, sometimes from far and wide, and this is a bumper time for many independent retailers. Customers who don’t visit their local butcher all year, will, for this special occasion order their turkey, chipolatas and bacon, goose, gammon or rib of beef from a “proper butcher”, to be sure of quality, and find to their surprise that the local butcher can be quite competitive on price, with the added advantages of provenance, animal welfare and far superior quality.

Wine merchants dust off the special Bordeaux, Clarets and Champagnes, while stocking up with plenty of “easy drinking fizz.” Delicatessens provide luxury hampers, a fabulous range of cheeses, oils, preserves, charcuterie and foodie gifts.

Companies looking for a change from the conventional office party may consider a themed evening, a murder mystery event or dining on one of the vintage railways that provide special Christmas events. City centre hotels from Bristol to Cardiff and in the larger towns such as Bournemouth, Exeter, Torquay, Plymouth and Weston are only too happy to take the strain, with many of the large chains offering dinner dances with live entertainment and special rates on accommodation for business or group bookings.

City centres come alive at this time of year, with bright lights, late opening hours, entertainment and special seasonal packages around every corner. Bars, such as the Big Chill in Bristol have special party rooms and clubs like Byzantium really push the boat out at Christmas, with seasonal menus and entertainment.

Farm Shops and garden centres come into their own too as an excellent source of unusual gifts and crafts, many such as Donniford Farm make a point of featuring local crafts peoples’ wares. Many also provide extra entertainment for the children with a petting zoo, playground or Santa’s grotto.

Farm shops can be relied upon for a wonderful range of fresh local produce, home made cakes and biscuits, pies, preserves, cold meats, and a great range of cheeses. Some, like Donniford, have their own butchery attached and provide free range meat and poultry.

All in all across the West Country, with good news all round on the economy, the hospitality, entertainment and food industries are preparing for a great Christmas.

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MEMORANDUM ETHICAL OFFICE SUPPLIES

Gloucestershire based, Memorandum, the ethical office supply company, was formed in 1997, with the intention to give customers the best office supplies in the most environmentally sustainable way possible.

The company supplies a full range of ethically sourced office supplies and stationery, post room equipment, franking machines and cartridges, office and educational furniture and a great range of promotional goods such as pens, mugs and diaries.

Memorandum is widely recognised as an ethical company - its ethos focuses on helping charities and providing green office supplies to businesses.

Sarah McNally, Director, explained: “We are committed to saving our customers money, whilst raising valuable funds for worthwhile causes, helping the environment and providing the best possible service.

Although the company have many major companies on their books and are rapidly expanding, they consider their greatest success to be the funds that they have raised for charity - over £92,000 so far.

B yBarzand an t i u m Restaurant Byzantium has recently relaunched as a relaxed dining lounge, bar and event venue.

The new menu will be served in the cosy surroundings of the ground floor with coffee and sweet bites and the tasty new dining menu served from midday until late. The new menu offers snacks or starters in the ‘light bites’ section like the Grilled goats cheese en croute with pepperonata for only £6 or something more hearty from the ‘big bites’ section like the Spiced pulled pork on charred flat bread with soused red onion and honey yogurt for a mere £9.

The ground floor bar & dining lounge is cosy yet spacious with art from local artists adorning the walls. All the art is for sale and the pieces will be rotated regularly.

The bar offers a wide variety of alcoholic drinks and the beers and ciders are locally sourced where possible. We offer a delicious range of coffees, fresh cocktails and run regular promotions on a selection of drinks.

Our romantic second floor restaurant with views over St Mary Redcliffe Church is used for parties of 10+ dining from the set-menu, private functions, weddings and over-spill on really busy nights.

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They donate 5% of the gross profit of every order placed to charity; and collect and recycle used printer cartridges, free of charge, from offices all over the UK donating up to £2 to charity for each one.

They were awarded Officepoint recycling company of the year for 2012, having collected and recycled more than 25,000 printer cartridges, saving more than 125000 litres of oil and preventing them going into landfill.

Memorandum is a company that really cares about its customers, its products and the environment.

FREEPHONE: 0800 955 0001 www.memorandum.co.uk

Tel : 0845 303 2772 Email: What's Right is a charitable not for profit local partnership that raise money for local good causes & helps people make a difference. www.whatsright.co.uk

Our summer menu is available to view in our food and drink section on our website.

Byzantium is a great space for a party with a late night licence until 2 am and our events team will be happy to assist in preparing food, drink and entertainment tailored to your budget.

For bookings call 0117 922 1883 or visit the website www.byzantium.co.uk for more information.

The Kings Arms

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Hospitality evidently runs in the Patrick family; Dan Patrick had owned and run the 16 bedroomed George Hotel for just over 9 years, with the help of Mum, Katherine, when he made the decision to buy the Kings Arms at Bishopstone, Nr Yeovil, in February this year.

The George Hotel had built a solid reputation for comfort, service and good food, and is a beautifully maintained “Olde Worlde” hotel. The hotel even has a four poster suite, ideal for honeymooners or that romantic weekend away. The kitchens are run by Chef Michael Wright who is very enthusiastic about the quality of the local produce.

All produce is sourced locally and both hotels are sure of the very best meat, properly matured, because Derek is an experienced butcher with long standing contacts among the local farmers.

The Kings Arms’ new Head Chef, Tony Doyle, describes his menus as “Classic British with an imaginative twist.” A good example is his Thai baked bream dish, delicious! Like Michael Wright at The George he is very enthusiastic about the quality of the produce available locally and enjoys devising new recipes to show it at its best.

Breakfasts are an event at the Kings Arms, locally sourced, really meaty sausages, local bacon, free range eggs and all the usual accompaniments; just the thing before a day’s hiking or sight seeing. Guests return in the evening to the cosy bar and a friendly welcome to choose from Tony’s interesting menu that caters for all tastes, as one lady said, “A real home from home!”

The Kings Arms, however had become rather run down and had developed a poor reputation, but it is a lovely building set among old fashioned streets that are really beautiful, even in the rain, and Dan saw the potential for a successful hotel.

Since taking over, the family have completely refurbished all the bedrooms and Katherine says proudly, “While there is still a lot of work to be done, the Kings Arms is the most beautiful hotel in the area!”

Katherine and her husband Derek are running the 15 bedroomed Kings Arms, which is attracting excellent reviews, for the warm welcome, lovely bedrooms and outstanding food.

A typical review, commented on “the stunning refurbishment undertaken by the new owners - skilfully achieved so as to retain the original character of the beautiful old building but with an eye-catching twist. Food was served quickly by friendly staff, was delicious and of the best possible ingredients. Really comfortable seating (including sofas and armchairs), lots of space, friendly staff, great food - what more can you ask?!

We will certainly return.”

Guests also enjoy the beer garden with its wonderful views and large draughts board, the hotel is also dog friendly, with owners who actually like dogs.

Katherine and Derek are looking forward to welcoming guests old and new throughout the coming seasons give them a call on 01935 822255

The

FINE FOOD C O M PA N Y

We are a wholesale supplier of high quality speciality food for Chefs, We supply a wide range of fresh, ambient and frozen food products of the highest standard to the catering industry; sourcing fresh, handpicked produce direct from speciality food markets and manufactures.

We are proud to support The Kings Arms & The George Hotel.

Wishing you continued success.

T: 01963 34699 F: 01963 824777 E: sales@finefoodco.co.uk

www.finefoodco.co.uk 77

10971 2pg_Carford Group 28/10/2013 19:02 Page 1

Platters Seafood loving Plymouth residents and visitors alike search out Platters seafood restaurant, which was opened in 1980 by Rocky Achilles and is still owned and run by the Achilles family.

Although specialising in seafood, the comfortable restaurant, offers a varied menu, traditional style fish and chips, homemade crab cakes, Plymouth Clam Chowder, seafood platters, shell fish, haddock, plaice, mackerel, scampi, and scallops are always available, also salads, steaks, chicken, vegetarian options and their special lasagne, all prepared and served with that special Achilles family flair.

They are licenced, and offer a good selection of red and white wines, beers, spirits, hot and soft drinks.

There is always a great atmosphere at Platters, which the family run to the high standards of hospitality established by Rocky himself, employing warmth and humour to welcome family and friends, and visitors old and new.

Diners come from all over the UK for the fresh local seafood and the warm welcome. Among their famous visitors, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber declared that his meal at Platters was “the finest fish I have tasted.”

The restaurant, sited on Plymouth’s Barbican, is widely known for its warm hospitality and fresh local seafood selected daily from Plymouth’s day boats at the nearby fish market.

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Rockys Sunday Carvery

What could be nicer than a delicious Sunday Roast with all the trimmings, which you haven’t had to cook yourself?

Choose from a selection of West Country joints and serve yourself from Yorkshire puddings, and a delicious array of fresh vegetables, including crunchy roast potatoes, followed by a choice of scrummy desserts.

Delicious food, great service and excellent value; Rocky’s and Platters look forward to serving great food, and greeting customers for at least another thirty years.

For more information about Rocky’s or Platters, please visit their web sites or telephone for a reservation,

Platters 01752 227392, www.platters-restaurant.co.uk Just round the corner from Platters is Rocky’s Grill, a lively steakhouse named in memory of Rocky himself, who sadly died 7 years ago.

Rocky’s 01752 22739, www.rockysgrill.co.uk

The décor suits the historic Barbican location, and has the relaxed, welcoming feel of an old fashioned hostelry.

Proud suppliers of fine wines to 5RFN\¶V DQG 3ODWWHUV

Rocky’s only use the best cuts of meat from local farms and serve West Country steaks, prepared to your taste; grills, signature homemade burgers made from proper ground steak, big salads, suitably sticky BBQ ribs, fresh fish, free range chicken and fabulous puddings.

Choose from the regular menu or Daily Specials Board.

It’s certainly a challenge that has Rocky’s attracts a been overcome, young crowd, families however. From it’s and couples, who are launch in 1995, seeking something Eurofilms Extrusion fresh and tasty, well has grown to the served in a relaxed extent that its and informal setting. turnover today is

www.regencywines.co.uk 01392 444123

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Children are always made very welcome at Rocky’s For further and even have their own special menu. information

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They are looking forward to introducing a range of special evenings such as, Ride in movie nights, Hip Hop Karaoke and emerging House DJs every Thursday.

“We are the Party!”

Bristol is at the heart of an artistic and creative resurgence, centred on the South West, but where do all these vibrant folk go to exchange ideas, eat drink and party?

In London, for the last 8 years party goers have been heading for the Big Chill Bar in the Brick Lane area of the East End. Taking its inspiration from the eclectic atmosphere of the Big Chill Music Festival it has become part of the fabric of Brick Lane life.

The Big Chill is a fantastic choice for a party; the large Georgian Study has a vaulted ceiling, an open fireplace and its own bar, offering a great choice of cocktails, champagne, wines, spirits and good beer. The room is equipped with a full sound system, and you can choose between an in-house DJ and your own music. This gorgeous room will take 90 happy party people.

A great space with a difference, for a smaller group, 25 – 30 people, the “secret” 70’s style disco kitchen, complete with Soda stream, 70’s wall paper and fittings, and an authentic kitchen layout, has its own bar, and retro sound system.

Big Chill’s own in-house chef will happily cater for your function, Mi Casa Cantina, pop-up, already familiar to lovers of good food in Bristol, has taken up residence at The Big Chill Bar. The kitchen is open from noon until 9pm Tuesday through to Saturday, and the Big Chill Bar itself is open from noon until 1pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, noon ‘til 2 am on Thursdays, and noon until 3am on Friday and Saturdays.

For a breakfast meeting with a difference, Big Chill is the place to go, give them a call on 0117 930 4217 or book at www.bigchill.net

Follow us Now Big Chill Bar has come to Bristol. Situated in Bristol’s Old City, and housed in one of the oldest buildings in the city it is spread across two floors incorporating a large Georgian Study and a suntrap roof terrace. It also has a ‘secret’ party kitchen available to hire with its own cocktail barman.

Ben Shaws Western are proud to supply the BIG CHILL BAR, Small Street Bristol.

We wish them every success for the future.

All enquires to Unit 5, Avon Gorge Industrial Estate, The Big Chill Bar is a social hub bringing together a community with a love of quality music, drink and food and a passion for art and design. The team in Bristol have created a super cool space for everyone to enjoy and one where you can celebrate The Big Chill festival spirit all year The Big Chill’s music policy is diverse, with live music from some of Bristol’s best Jazz musicians to the some of the biggest DJ names in the game; the Big Chill in Bristol offers music from across the spectrum every night and always for FREE!

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Portview Road, Bristol BS11 9LQ Telephone 0117 982 4742

11197 1pg_HorseWorld 28/10/2013 13:42 Page 1

The key to the excellent reviews they are receiving is service; the entire team at the Paris hotel are focussed on making sure that you enjoy your stay, nothing is too much trouble, from the spotless bedrooms to the generous, freshly cooked breakfasts.

When local man Ian Richards decided to take over the Paris Hotel at Coverack, without any experience of running a pub or a hotel, in March 2009 it was a leap into the unknown.

Coverack is on the east side of the Lizard Peninsula, and guests at the Paris Hotel can enjoy scenic walks along the coastal path or lounge on one of the nearby beaches. The area is a centre for water sports, including sailing and diving from The Manacles.

But, what Ian lacked in experience he more than made up for in ideas, and said he “just fancied a change.”

And change is what he has certainly brought, since he took over, and breathed new life into this popular local haunt. The outside has been repainted, and furnished with fresh new signage, and he has completely refurbished all the bedrooms, stripped them right back and replastered. The bedrooms are now all freshly painted in fresh light colours and have beautiful sea views.

The hotel was built by the Redruth Brewery back in 1907 and was named after the liner SS PARIS which ran aground on the headland on whit Monday 1899.

Ian extends a warm welcome to guests old and new and says “Come and try our friendly, personal service, quality food and a relaxed atmosphere.” He says “If you wish to come and stay with us or eat, please call on 01326 280258 or send an email to info@pariscoverack.com.”

www.pariscoverack.com The restaurant has always been very popular but the new Head Chef, John Heaney, has added his own personal touch, and is passionate about using fresh local produce. His menu, which changes daily, features locally caught, fresh fish and seafood, meats and fresh seasonal vegetables, followed by a choice of local cheeses or delicious desserts, featuring, as you would expect Cornish clotted cream! Vegetarians are not forgotten, with a choice of interesting tasty dishes, and there is a good choice of quality wines to complement your meal.

The hotel has a bright function room attached, adjacent to the bar, suitable for weddings, christenings, family parties and wakes.

They will be delighted to hold your special event, and you can rely on John to come up with a menu to suit both your requirements and your budget. So if you are thinking of having a party, phone them to see how they can help.

Ian has also introduced live entertainment from local bands, Wednesday Quiz Nights, and, mainly out of season, Special Food Evenings.

The Paris Hotel is popular with locals and visitors alike, the friendly bar hums with the buzz of conversation, and on mild nights people take their drinks outside to the garden to enjoy the wonderful sea views.

Allll at A at Great Great White White L Laundry aundry S Services ervices a are re proud to be supporting The P Paris aris Hotel 2-5 Wheal V Virgin irgin House, St Ives, Cornwall TR26 2HW Office 01736 79 40 08 - F Fax ax 01736 79 44 22 www.greatwhitelaundry.com www .greatwhitelaundry.com office@greatwhitelaundry.com office@greatwhitelaundry .com

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11201 and 11241 1pg_Pipers Inn 28/10/2013 13:48 Page 1

Having such a great choice, welcome and service has reaped rewards for Clive, Sam, and their team, who have continually grown the business, since their arrival in 2007.

the the

CROSS ROSS KE KEYS EYS M Midford i d f o r d Road R o a d | Bath B a t h | BA2 B A 2 5R 5R Z

The Cross Keys inn is a popular family-run ale house and restaurant specialising in well portioned quality homemade food, in a traditional pub atmosphere.

Clive and Samantha Prescott continue a centuries-long line of hospitable landlords who have been greeting pilgrims and locals since the pub, on the ancient ecclesiastical Bath to Wells road, opened in the early 18th century.

Just 15 minutes from the city centre, at Combe Down, the Cross Keys is renowned for its varied seven-days-a-week menu, an award-winning garden, roaring real fires in the winter and all-round welcome that includes children and dogs.

There’s always something happening too. The Cross Keys’ most recent successful event was the August Bank Holiday Beer Festival and Family Fun Day while fund-raising quiz nights are held every Sunday.

Foodies, in the meantime, can tuck into the popular tapas menu or sample some of the many other freshly prepared dishes.

Serving fresh ‘bean to cup’ coffee, and offering two and three course deals on their fabulous Sunday roast (try the home-made gravy!) and the ever popular 241 deal from the specials board between 6pm and 7pm, it’s easy to eat well for less.

For more details, including opening times and Christmas bookings, visit www.crosskeysbath.co.uk. Alternatively telephone 01225 849180, email info@crosskeysbath.co.uk or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Jones Butchers Quality butchers based in Bath.

Proud suppliers to The Cross Keys Inn For more information, call us on 01225 423892

As a recent visitor found, “On the way to Glastonbury we stopped off at the Pipers Inn. We hadn't planned to stop so it was a bonus to find we could have a good lunch and a relaxing time before continuing our journey.

The Pipers Inn offers a dining experience using fresh local produce wherever possible. They are proud of their wholesome home cooked meals; quality food cooked to order for your enjoyment. They have a fresh fish board, weekly specials, and offer a smaller portion option.

Under new ownership but continuing a tradition of hospitality dating back to the 17th Century The Pipers Inn is a family run business located on the A39 between Street and Ashcott.

The Pipers Inn is delighted to cater for weddings, christenings, birthdays, private parties or corporate events in their restaurant or private function room.

The property has extensive car parking and has a large garden with decking and children’s play area.

Why not drop in, visit the web site

www.pipers-inn.com or telephone 01458 210030

The Inn offers a warm welcome to locals and tourists alike.

Weary travellers visiting the many nearby attractions of Glastonbury, Cathedral City of Wells, Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole Caves or Clark's Village in Street for a shopping day, are happy to settle into a comfortable chair in the welcoming bar, where a wide selection of wines and hand pulled cask ales is available, but once they take a glance at the inviting menu, that quick drink often turns into an enjoyable meal.

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JAS Brake Proud supplier of dair y products to The Pipers Inn

21 Meadow Lane, Walton Street, Somerset BA16 9LA 07770 750 073

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G O O D F E L L O W S Dine at Adam’s ‘Chef’s Table’ for a truly gastronomic experience at one of Somerset’s finest Restaurants.

Goodfellows Seafood Restaurant in Wells, owned by Adam and Martine Fellows, has always offered its customers a modern take on fine dining, by having the open plan kitchen in the centre of the restaurant, while still providing an intimate setting.

Adam loves the conviviality of the arrangement, which enables him to enjoy a two-way interaction with all his customers.

This September Adam has launched an exciting new ‘Chef’s Table’ dining experience. The restaurant has been remodelled with comfortable banquette seating offering diners a chance to view all the kitchen action captured on cameras mounted near the hot plates and viewed on flat screen TV. Adam has a passion for fish, and creates dishes which are light but intense with flavour. His sensational new menu will showcase speciality fish dishes created from his 17 years of experience cooking in many of the best restaurants across England, France and Belgium, including one, two and three Michelin starred properties. Prior to opening Goodfellows, Adam was Head Chef at the Michelin starred Charlton House Hotel.

The tasting menu is priced at £65 per person with a matching wine flight available for those wishing to create a truly gourmand experience. The tasting menu can be adapted for vegetarians and for other dietary requirements.

The ‘Chef’s Table Tasting Menu’ is only available on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings with seating for up to 12 people.

Goodfellows is recommended by The Good Food Guide and has two AA Red Rosettes. It has been mentioned on no less than three occasions in The Times Top Ten Restaurants, and won the Food Reader Award for Best Chef of the Year, which is high praise.

Within view of Wells’ medieval Market Place, Goodfellows is spread over two floors; the top floor is cool and airy, and can seat up to 20 people, ideal for parties. On the ground floor, the seating is arranged around Adam’s open kitchen.

The menu comprises of 7 tasting courses reflecting the finest of Adam’s dishes combined with the best local seasonal ingredients. The courses will feature a host of seafood delights such as; chilled gazpacho with Brixham crab, tuna sashimi with soy jelly wasabi and norj seaweed, Scallop ravioli with oyster veloute and Turbot with a truffle crust, smoked ham hock and celeriac.

The fresh fish is delivered daily, and comes mainly from day boats off the coast of Devon and Cornwall; Adam’s inventive recipes enhance the natural flavours of the fish but never overcomplicate them.

“Here at Goodfellows, our kitchen has always been the heart of the restaurant. Our ‘Chef’s Table’ concept creates a truly interactive experience for our patrons.’’ Adam Fellows, owner and head chef.

to Goodfellows, We are proud to support Goodfellows Wells & Shepton Mallet Our extensive list of quality food manufacturers and producers gives our customers access to a vast range of seasonal and year round ingredients and produce.

The Fine Food Company Unit 20, Bennetts Field Trading Estate, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9DT Tel: 01963 34699 Email: sales@finefoodco.co.uk Web: www.finefoodco.co.uk

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At the heart of Woolacombe and next to one of the country’s prime surfing beaches, The Red Barn has been riding the crest of the town’s hospitality wave for more than 100 years.

We’re open all year around and serve our main food menu - and Chef’s Specials - all day, every day,” says Angus. “Our professionally equipped kitchen, staffed by trained chefs, enables us to keep the freshly-prepared food coming.

“Local butchers provide us with West Country beef for steaks, chilli and homemade burgers, the buns for which are made for us by an Ilfracombe bakery. Potatoes are hand chipped and cooked to order, we shred and mix our own coleslaw and the batter for the cod features local ale.

Now a vibrant pub and restaurant, and a welcoming home to the town’s surfers since the 1960s, the hostelry has been a magnet for visitors and locals alike ever since it opened in the Victorian era as tea rooms.

“As far as we know, The Red Barn is the only place in town that pickles its own onions and beetroot and makes its own Victorian chutney.”

Like the ever changing tides nearby, it has constantly evolved with the times: a summer tea room and restaurant in those early years, an American Red Cross Service Club during World War II, and a family cafe afterwards, until current MD Angus Ashford transformed it into its present thriving guise.

But what has never changed is the pride and commitment to serving the Great British public quality food and drink from menus that are regularly refreshed and updated to ensure people get the best it can offer.

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Angus is the third generation Ashford to run the Barton Road establishment. The family arrived in the 1960s with

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Angus coming on board in 1996. In 1997 he gave the Red Barn its pub and restaurant status and business not only doubled immediately, it continued to grow right into the late 2000s.

or looking to relax on a family occasion, we can promise that they will be well fed.”

For further information about The Red Barn it’s menu, drinks list or busy live music programe go to www.redbarnwoolacombe.co.uk Alternatively, telephone 01271 870264 Hotel and Holiday Park Consumables | Hand Hygiene Products Mini Jumbo Toilet Rolls | Cleaning Equipment

Workwear | Gloves | Tableware Supplies

The recent recession has not left the business untouched, but Angus is delighted at its continuing ability to weather customers’ changing taste and expectations and to meet legislative challenges posed by the catering industry.

First Class Service as standard when you get your leisure and hygiene consumables from Nicholsons Paper & Polythene Disposables | Washroom |

“We continually aim to improve our customer service and what we offer,” he says.

“During this past 16 years we’ve listened to their comments and worked tirelessly at honing our menu and service to suit all their needs so that we deliver a memorable experience to ensure they return.

“Whether they’re coming in from a cold winter walk on the beach, a hectic summer’s day building sand-castles, Ilfracombe Foodservice are proud to supply Red Barn - Woolacombe and wish them every success for the future.

ILFRACOMBE FOODSERVICE

Over 40 years of dedicated service to the Catering Industry delivering Ambient, Frozen, Chilled, & Non Foods.

www.iwgltd.co.uk Tel: 01271 862569

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Winford Manor has accommodation to suit every budget and excellent, accessible services. Shortlisted to the top 2 in the UK for a ‘Catey’ award for accessibility, the hotel’s superb and extensive disabled facilities have also been recognised by “Access for All” awards from Bristol Tourism & Hospitality, and South West Tourism and Destination Bristol.

Only 5 minutes form Bristol Airport, guests can enjoy secure parking and book airport transfer 24 hours a day for a small fee. Winford Manor Hotel is a convenient Airport Hotel in a stunning location.

As well as winning another ‘Gold’ from Green Business Tourism, Multi award winning Winford Manor Hotel has been shortlisted for Green Tourism’s annual GOLDSTAR award in the category of Hotel, to be presented during Green Tourism Week 4th – 10th Nov 2013, representing one of the highest scoring Gold Hotels graded during 2012 throughout the UK and Ireland.

The Labyrinth restaurant serves a delicious range of freshly cooked dishes, prepared from fresh locally sourced produce.

The menus devised by Head Chef, Scott Lucas, showcase the outstanding quality of his ingredients in a range of traditional, simple dishes prepared with his own special twist.

Special dietary requirements are cheerfully catered for. Locals often call in to enjoy a light lunch in the Atrium, or a memorable dinner in the lovely surroundings, while Winford Manor’s traditional Sunday Roasts are becoming very popular.

Conference and event facilities are available at Winford Manor; the easily accessible location and peaceful rural surroundings make the hotel a wonderful venue for business meetings and special occasions. Weddings especially, with the hotel and grounds presenting many lovely photo opportunities for truly memorable pictures. The hotel’s own wedding and conference co-ordinator will be delighted to plan the perfect day with you.

The world’s leading sustainable tourism accreditation programme honours Britain’s most environmentally friendly businesses at a prestigious national awards ceremony to mark the culmination of Green Tourism Week. The 2013 Green Tourism Gold Star awards are the biggest and best yet, with more than 2,400 contenders whittled down to a shortlist of 63 businesses, nominated for 15 awards. Now in their third year, the annual awards aim to honour those businesses and organisations that have done the most to promote sustainability within the industry by implementing costsaving practices that help the environment, improve customer services and benefit the bottom line.

The winners of the awards will be announced at the first Green Tourism Conference to be held at the AT-Bristol Science Centre on 8th November as one of the highlights marking a week of events across the country between November 4th and 10th to mark Green Tourism Week.

For full details, to make a booking, view the menus, or enjoy Winnie the dog’s blog, please visit the web site www.winfordmanor.co.uk or telephone 01275 472292

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No matter which option you choose, every bedroom has comfort cooling, WiFi and a flatscreen satellite TV along with a hair dryer, ironing facilities, telephone and modem points, and tea and coffee making facilities.

Workplace Pensions

Not only do guests sleep well, they wine and dine well, thanks to the Napier Restaurant which serves the best of traditional and contemporary British cuisine.

Scottish Life is turning away automatic enrolment business from firms that are less than six months from their staging date due to concerns they will be unable to deal with the administrative workload.

Time is running out as experts warn of an auto-enrolment “capacity crunch”, with insurers struggling to meet the demands of employers as the reforms are rolled out to small and medium sized businesses.

Many SMEs are facing the threat of significant fines for failing to comply with auto-enrolment, according to a report published by law firm, Irwin Mitchell.

The study uncovered that a number of employers are yet to 'stage' auto-enrolment and fully consider the key issues that need resolving ahead of its implementation.

Following its research of more than 250 small UK employers, almost two-thirds had failed to budget for the additional costs that can be incurred as a result of auto-enrolment, while nearly 40 per cent of respondents said their payroll system was non-compliant.

Although big groups tend to have their own advisors – dedicated pension advice specialists in house, the problem lies with the already administratively overburdened SME sector, a large tranche of whom are due to come on line in 2014.

Many companies who have comfortably assumed that the company pension plan they have in place will be suitable, are finding that their schemes either don’t qualify, the provider doesn’t want the workers at the lower end of the pay scale, or that their established scheme is simply not able to support the provisions of Auto Enrolment.

Finding the right plan and obtaining professional advice is core to the ideals of the scheme, but companies need to be aware that the whole process can take at least a year.

The Pensions Regulator advises companies, “Allow plenty of time to prepare. We recommend starting 12-18 months before your staging date, though this will vary depending on your individual circumstances - not all employers will need to allow so much time.”

Although a year may seem a long time away, by 1st July 2014 companies with as few as 62 staff will need to have their schemes in place, and those with 90 + staff who haven’t started the process yet are already running late, as their staging date is May1st 2014.

A spokesman says they usually require a lead-in time of at least six months to prepare employers’ payroll systems and roll out communications to staff ahead of their auto-enrolment staging date.

Legal & General will not confirm whether it has a specific cut-off period, although it is understood the provider will not deal with employers that are within three months of their staging date.

An L&G spokesman says: “An employer should ideally be thinking about auto-enrolment at a minimum of six months ahead of their staging dates, preferably longer.

Queens Hotel The Queen’s Hotel is more than an elegant landmark for the ‘gateway to the scenic Cotswolds’, Cheltenham Spa, it’s Europe’s first purpose-built hotel that has been welcoming guests for more than 175 years.

Situated at the top of the town’s famous Promenade, the noble Grade II building captures all the Regency grandeur and style in a nutshell. When Cheltenham wants to attract visitors, images of The Queen’s Hotel, with its spectacular glistening white façade and imposing six pillared portico take pride of place.

“To date we have not turned an employer away but we are unable to provide a solution to an employer that has not embarked on their planning for auto-enrolment in good time.”

Companies who have not made adequate provision will be sucked into the government’s default scheme of NEST which has been created as part of the government’s pension reforms to help employers meet their new duties.

Any UK employer can use NEST to meet their new workplace pension duties, no matter how large or small their organisation, but they must still have all their preparations made in good time, more information can be found on www.nestpensions.org.uk.

However, pension experts point out that NEST has a number of major drawbacks, although obliged to accept any employer, it lacks capacity, the management charge of 1.8% is not particularly cheap, and its provisions are relatively inflexible.

So now is the time for employers to review their options without delay.

For more information about auto enrolment visit

www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk

The hospitality from all the Queen’s staff, led by General Manager Peter Watt, is second to none and there’s an equally warm welcome to those looking for a venue to host a big event.

With a choice of room, functions for 1- to 120 guests can be accommodated. And if the event is more for business than pleasure, the hotel has all the facilities every modern conference organiser requires, such as individually designed delegate packages, complimentary stationery, LCD projector, screen and flipchart.

An Aviva spokesman says: “Our first priority is to support our existing customers through auto-enrolment, and that is where we are applying our efforts.

A Prudential spokesman says: “Our approach has been to open a dialogue with clients 12 to 15 months ahead of staging dates and in this way we have been successful in agreeing autoenrolment solutions well in advance of deadlines.

Adorned with photographs of the town’s famous racecourse, it’s also the perfect place for guests seeking light refreshments, morning coffee or afternoon tea.

The Regency decor forms a perfect setting for any wedding or civil ceremony, with the hotel’s walled garden an ideal place for photographs and reception drinks.

Other providers recognise the challenge posed by employers that do not begin preparations for auto-enrolment early but did not provide details of when they would consider turning business away.

Scottish Widows head of corporate pensions Pete Glancy says: “Given how much time and effort is required to deliver autoenrolment schemes, we are not surprised some providers would express concerns about being able to deliver with less than six months notice.

Diners can enjoy classic dishes cooked with flair which are perfectly complemented by a selection of fine wines from the extensive wine list while the Gold Cup bar is ideal for pre and afterdinner drinks.

Of course, everything within and about this 4* hotel, under the Mercure brand and part of the Accor group, is as impressive as the building itself.

For further information about the Queen’s Hotel, its conference and wedding packages and dining experience, or to make a booking, go to http://www.mercure.com/gb/hotel-6632-mercurecheltenham-queen-s/index.shtml.

Alternatively you can telephone 01242 307 800 or email H6632@accor.com

Here is where visitors experience superb standards of comfort, as one would expect from an establishment which has been welcoming distinguished guests, including a past Prince of Wales, for more than a century.

It’s convenient too. The Queen’s Hotel overlooks the Imperial Gardens and is a mere stroll from the town's many shops and restaurants.

The 84 bedrooms offer a range of accommodation including privilege rooms, four-poster features and one with enhanced accessibility.

Proud to be associated with Queens Hotel

www.spa-tax.com

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